Extra precautions advised for immune-compromised persons

─Deputy CMO

DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, March 31, 2020

The Ministry of Health has announced that special consideration has been made for persons living with diabetics, cancer sickle cell or/and HIV/AIDS in its preparedness plan to safeguard against the further spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

In the update to the nation today, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Karen Boyle said, “The guidelines are the same for them, but they must take extra precautions. We are in the process of organising alternative arrangements so that they are provided with their medications without putting themselves at additional risk.”

Dr. Boyle outlined that each region’s health system is accommodating patients such as these.

“The regions are actively working on developing a system where all patients especially those with chronic diseases and other speciality clinics can be seen. At-risk groups would not need to come out and the best mode to operate would be shared at a later date.” She added

Meanwhile, it was noted that to contain and mitigate the further spread of this virus, the Ministry will be strengthening community and hospital surveillance as well as the rapid response surveillance team.

There are now 12 confirmed of COVID-19 in the country, with one inconclusive case.  The number of persons tested is 52 and with 43 in institutional quarantine and dozens more are on home quarantine. There are two deaths to date.

The Ministry of Public Health is reminding all citizens to heed the health advisories and observe the correct hygiene measures and precautions and continue to practice social distancing in the workplace, public spaces, and while using public transportation to reduce the spread of the coronavirus disease.