MoH prepared for a COVID-19 spike following holiday festivities

The Ministry of Health is again appealing to the public to observe the COVID-19 preventative measures, even as it braces for an expected spike in positive cases, following the holiday season.

During Monday’s COVID-19 update, Dr Frank Anthony said the Ministry anticipates more infections and is making preparations at hospitals and other medical institutions.

“Testing is one aspect to determine whether or not positive. We also have to ready the hospital itself to ensure we can accommodate persons who require hospitalisation.”

The incubation period for COVID-19 is approximately 14 days. Therefore, anytime between the point of exposure to this period, signs and symptoms can appear. Minister Anthony said the situation is being monitored closely.

“The doctors and other medical personnel have been looking at this. And while we are planning for a surge, we hope that we don’t have one because if too many people come into the health system, it can be easily overwhelmed.”

Dr. Anthony noted that the Ministry has improved its testing capacity over the last few months. The National Public Health Reference Laboratory recently received new equipment, and technicians trained, which boosted testing capacity. The laboratory can now analyse between 1500 to 2000 PCR tests in an hour. Additionally, the Ministry has introduced antigen tests, from which the results are available between 20 and 30 minutes.