No Suspected cases of COVID-19 on Anguilla

The Ministry of Health has been made aware of a post circulating on Social media with incorrect and dangerous information.

There are NO suspected cases of COVID-19 on Anguilla at this time.
Further, the Ministry of Health notes there are no guests with any symptoms of COVID-19 or exposure history suggestive of COVID-19 at any hotel property on the island. This report is incorrect and malicious.

The Ministry of Health notes that since February 3rd, 2020, a quarantine system has been in place for persons arriving from high-risk locations; similar to many other countries globally. Quarantine refers to restricting movement of persons who may have been exposed due to travel history or contacts but have no symptoms of the virus. These persons are actively monitored for signs of the virus.

A suspected case refers to a person who has symptoms such as a fever and cough AND who may have been exposed to the virus based on travel history or known contact with an infected person.
The Ministry of Health urges persons to follow the official channels for information and desist from spreading incorrect information that may hamper the efforts of the Ministry to ensure early detection and timely response to COVID-19. If information on this matter does not come from the Ministry of Health, it is not an official release and should not be spread on social media or elsewhere as if it is. This has to potential to cause panic and unnecessary harm to Anguilla.

The Ministry of Health, working with the World Health Organisation, The Pan American Health Organisation, The Caribbean Public Health Agency and Public Health England will officially notify the public of any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 if they occur. It is the legal and moral responsibility of the Government of Anguilla to share this type of information in accordance with International Health Regulations and proper public health principles.

The Ministry notes that a press conference is scheduled for later today that will outline additional measures in the response to COVID-19. Persons desirous of information on COVID-19 can also contact the 24/7 hotline at 1 264-476- 7627 (476-SOAP).