St Thomas residents encouraged to wear masks

Amidst an ongoing spike in COVID-19 cases, Medical Officer of Health for the parish of St Thomas, Dr D’Oyen Smith, is encouraging residents to wear masks to prevent further spread in the parish. 

“COVID-19 remains priority for us...At present, though the approach is not for the entire everywhere to be wearing masks, it is recommended for those persons that are vulnerable,” he said. 

He was speaking at Thursday’s meeting of the St Thomas Municipal Council.

Smith disclosed that only 16.5 per cent of resident in the parish have been vaccinated against the virus. And reminded them that the Morant Bay Health Centre offers vaccination on Tuesdays. 

Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton also echoed the sentiment at this week’s sitting of parliament.

Tufton noted that vulnerable persons, such as the elderly and those with comorbid illnesses are particularly at-risk, and as such should adhere to regular handwashing and sanitising, the wearing of mask, and covering the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing in public spaces.

“Although the COVID-19 numbers are relatively low, a continued increase in the positivity rate may result in increased numbers, including hospital numbers,”  Tufton said. 

The Minister also reported that overall, the actual numbers are not showing a consistent increase.

-Sashana Small 

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