Health Ministry urges caution as risk of COVID-19 transmission increases
Aug. 13, 2024
KINGSTON, Jamaica. Thursday, August 8, 2024: The Ministry of Health and Wellness is urging Jamaicans to remain vigilant as its surveillance data shows high transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus among the population.
In July, the country recorded 176 COVID-19 cases, a 16 percent increase from the 152 recorded in the previous month. The case distribution shows the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew (25%), St. Catherine (18%) and St. James (18%) with the highest figures.
The Ministry continues to recommend vaccination as the best defense against severe illness and death associated with COVID-19. At present, doses of the Pfizer vaccine are available to the population.
Further, members of the public must remain at home if feeling ill, wear a mask to prevent spread of respiratory droplets, practice proper sneezing and coughing etiquette especially when in public spaces, and wash hands or use hand sanitizers. Jamaicans travelling abroad are especially urged to be diligent in practicing these infection prevention protocols. Additionally, immunocompromised persons and those with chronic conditions are urged to pay particular attention to their care management.
Thirteen COVID-19 deaths have been reported since the start of the year.