Region Six records zero COVID-19 transmissions to date

—One imported case recorded

—Regional Health Services Director assures efforts in place to prevent spread of virus

DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, June 2, 2020

There has been no local transmission of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne.

This report comes just over two months since the only case, which was imported, was recorded in late March. That patient subsequently succumbed as they had developed the most complicated form of the virus.

The region has been working assiduously to ensure there are no more cases recorded and have been making certain that residents follow all the necessary guidelines.

More importantly, robust screening has been taking place at the region’s main point of entry – the Berbice River Bridge.

Director of Health Services in Region Six, Jevaughn Stephen disclosed that all recommended options continue to be explored to guarantee the safety and health of residents in the most efficient way.

“Daily, we record on average about 1700-2500 persons entering the region so we have a team that is working out there on three shifts between 6am to 6pm. This is to ensure that any person with an abnormal body temperature is referred to a secondary screening facility.,” Stephen explained.

He added that thus far this method has proven to be very effective and is helping the health officials ensure that “no other COVID-19 case slips through our fingers in East Berbice-Corentyne.”

Added to this, screening is being conducted at all 30 health centres and health posts throughout the region along with the three district hospitals in Skeldon, Mibicuri and Port Mourant.

While these preventative measures are being executed, persons who would have travelled to other regions with COVID-19 cases and returned to Region Six without displaying symptoms can subject themselves for a COVID-19 test.

Stephen explained: “At Port Mourant, we would have installed our mobile testing unit. So, persons who feel they may need a COVID-19 test or are showing symptoms of COVID-19 can go there and if necessary, have a sample taken. The results will be given in a matter of 26-36 hours.”

There is also a weekly televised programme hosted in the region to keep the residents informed about COVID-19 and how they can protect themselves and their loved ones.

The Health Services Director appealed to everyone to continue working towards flattening the COVID-19 transmission curve.

“We are just asking the public to practise the basics; social distancing which is very important, we also ask that you wear your mask, wash your hands as much as possible with soap and water and if you don’t have access to soap and water then an alcohol-based sanitiser is highly recommended,” Stephen said.