Public Health Minister again calls for social distancing

—Advises citizens to heed all precautions amid increasing COVID-19 cases

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, April 2, 2020

The Public Health Minister Hon. Volda Lawrence has yet again reiterated her call for persons to observe social distancing and to heed all advisories published by her ministry.

In her daily update to the nation, Minister Lawrence updated sought to impress upon the nation the seriousness of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

“I have noticed that despite the countless messages appealing to you to be responsible, to comply with the advisory measures…. you are still breaching the protocols and behaving as if you are immune to the disease. Let me remind you that COVID-19 has no boundaries, its firing power is aimed at all of us,” she emphasised

It has been just about three weeks since the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Guyana. Today there are a total of 19 confirmed cases of which 15 are active cases, one inconclusive and four deaths.

The minister reminded that a few days ago there was only one COVID-19-related death today there are four and called for citizens to act more responsibly.

“I am asking you to play your part and adhere to all credible advisories that have been circulating in the media for your protection and mine. Handwashing, cough etiquette and above all, social/physical distancing are the steps that can save our lives.”

She further noted that if persons need to be outdoors, they must wear something to cover their mouth and nose to protect themselves from the virus which is carried in “invisible little droplets that are responsible for the spread of this infectious disease.”

The Minister also thanked several individuals and groups for their work in helping to prevent the spread of the virus.