From:TheBahamasWeekly.com

Bahamas Information Services Updates
Second Wave of Initial Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 Connected to Individuals from G. B. who travelled from the U.S.
By Llonella Gilbert
Jul 31, 2020 - 10:00:52 PM

Nassau, The Bahamas - Minister of Heath the Hon. Renward Wells explained that based on information available to Ministry of Health Officials, the initial confirmed cases of the second wave of COVID-19 is connected to individuals from Grand Bahama who travelled from the United States.

“Our information also leads us to conclude that the increase in the number of positive COVID-19 cases is connected to the social activities among Bahamians – funerals, weddings, and home parties,” Minister Wells said at a COVID-19 Update Press Conference at the National Emergency Management Agency Headquarters, Friday, July 31, 2020.

“For example, individuals from Grand Bahama, New Providence, and Bimini, all attended a particular funeral and within a single incubation period, there were increased numbers of cases on those islands.”

He added, “Let me be frank, while there is no way to ensure zero risk of infection of COVID-19, doing all that we can to minimize risks and stay safe requires personal responsibility.”

Minister Wells stressed that individuals should not socialize with people who do not live with them; to not engage in activities that do not respect the protocols of social distancing and wearing masks, as there is no way for them to know who is infected.

He noted that with the impending threat of Hurricane Isaias, the government has relaxed some restrictions to facilitate hurricane preparations.

“This time should be used to do all that you can to preserve life and property. I strongly advise all Bahamians and residents not to squander it on gatherings and parties that ripen conditions for the spread of COVID-19.”

He stated that it is important to understand that –

  •     the more people you interact with;
  •     the more closely you interact with them; and
  •     the longer the interaction, the higher your risk of getting COVID-19 and spreading it to others.

The Health Minister said it can never be overstated and it is important enough for him to continually repeat:

  •     Wear a face mask over your mouth AND nose when you leave home and especially when you are around other people.
  •     Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  •     If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol.
  •     Always cover your cough or sneeze in your inner elbow or with a tissue.
  •     Frequently clean and disinfect your phones, remote controls, counters, doorknobs, and keyboards.
Minister Wells said, “This is the only way we can consistently bend and eventually flatten the contagion curve.”
Minister_Renward_Wells-2_1.jpg
Minister of Health the Hon. Renward Wells speaks to the Bahamian public at a COVID-19 Update Press Conference at the National Emergency Management Agency Headquarters, Friday, July 31, 2020. (BIS Photo/Kemuel Stubbs)



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