Public cooperation key to flattening COVID-19 transmission curve

−Ministry continues to appeal to public to adhere to precautionary measures

DPI, Guyana, Friday, April 3, 2020

Deputy-Chief Medical Officer Dr. Karen Boyle has followed up on a call made by Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence for the public to be cognizant of the seriousness of the coronavirus and to follow all precautionary measures.

In today’s update to the nation, Dr. Boyle noted that the majority of cases testing positive have acquired the virus through local transmission since these persons have no recent travel history.

The DCMO re-emphasised that every person is at risk of contracting the disease.

She also pointed out that while efforts are being made by the ministry to contain the local transmission, there are challenges with persons who have come into contact with the disease.

“They are not providing us with accurate information so that we can better manage their situation. Further, the persons placed on home quarantine are either refusing to adhere to the instructions or recommendations given by the Surveillance Officers or are downright refusing to go on quarantine.”

Dr. Boyle again called on Guyanese to act responsibly as the ministry requires full cooperation from everyone to effectively win the fight against COVID-19.

Practices such social distancing, cough etiquette, handwashing and sanitising and wearing a face mask if one must be out of the house are some of the ways the general public can help protect themselves and their families.

Public gatherings at places of entertainment, including bars, clubs, gymnasiums, night clubs, restaurants and swimming pools have been discouraged and a 6pm to 6am curfew has been placed on these establishments with effect from today.

It was announced today that 23 persons have tested positive for coronavirus to date. Of this number, four have died. Meanwhile, numbers are increasing in neighbouring countries and around the world.