Haiti records six new deaths as COVID cases continue to rise

PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti, Aug 8, CMC – Haiti has recorded six new deaths as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The country also recorded 17 new cases of the virus over the past 24 hours.

The Ministry of Public Health said that the deaths occurred in the West, Central and South-East Departments, bringing the total to date to 177.

It said that the 17 new cases has bright the total to 7,599 since the first case was detected on March 19. Men accounted for most of the cases.

The Ministry of Public Health said that there were now 2,529 active cases while 19,601 cases have been investigated since March.

The announcement of the increased cases comes as the United States has issued a maximum level 4 traveller alert for Haiti, urging its nationals to avoid travel to the CARICOM country due to COVID-19, crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

“Travelers to Haiti may experience border closures, airport closures, travel prohibitions, stay at home orders, business closures, and other emergency conditions within Haiti due to COVID-19,” the US authorities said.

They said violent crime, such as armed robbery and carjacking, is common.

“Kidnapping is widespread. Kidnappers may use sophisticated planning or take advantage of unplanned opportunities. Victims have included US citizens.

“Demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and can turn violent. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. Emergency response, including ambulance service, is limited or non-existent. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in some areas of Haiti," Washington said.

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