Barbados reports 31 new positive cases of COVID-19

Barbados: On May 4, 2021, 650 COVID-19 tests were administered by the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory, reporting 31 positive coronavirus cases in Barbados.

Twenty-four of these new positives are all patients of the same ward at the Psychiatric Hospital. These 24 cases occurred from retesting of staff and clients of the ward, who were placed under isolation, after a known male outpatient of the ward tested positive on April 28, 2021.

The clients were isolated on-site, while the staff were quarantined offsite at a compulsory, approved quarantine place. The isolated staff have all tested negative and have been cleared to continue their work duties. The 24 clients will be quarantined and managed on-site. Testing in the broader staff and client population continues at the department.

Of the seven additional positive cases detected on May 4, 2021, one individual exhibited respiratory symptoms and presented to the Wildey Gymnasium for testing; three persons were discovered through community contact tracing. The additional three cases were visitors to the island.

After being tested at the airport, the visitors, having arrived at the Grantley Adams International Airport with negative PCR tests, later tested positive for COVID-19. All positive cases have been placed in isolation.

Despite falling numbers over the past many weeks, Barbados is still in the state of community spread and the public is being recalled and cautioned to adhere to all protocols outlined by the health care officials – the correct wearing of masks over the nose and mouth in public spaces; keeping a physical distance of six feet away from others, and implementing accurate hand washing and sanitising practices.

If you are encountering any respiratory or other symptoms of concern, please contact your health care provider for further intervention.