Returning Resident Tests Positive for COVID-19 – Two Active Cases on Island

n adult female returning resident from the Dominican Republic tested positive for COVID-19 after undergoing her test to be released from 10-days of quarantine. She arrived in Anguilla on July 15, submitted a negative COVID-19 PCR test result prior to

arrival, and subsequently tested negative upon arrival. Presently she is asymptomatic and is in isolation. All immediate household members have been tested, and all are currently negative and placed in quarantine. This brings the total number of confirmed cases to 114 with two active cases on island at this time.

The individual was vaccinated with the Sinovac Vaccine in the Dominican Republic. This is a case of a vaccine breakthrough infection, defined as the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antigen in a respiratory specimen collected from a person ≥14 days after receipt of all recommended doses of an authorized COVID-19 vaccine. Even though the vaccines are highly effective, breakthrough cases are expected, especially before population immunity reaches sufficient levels to further decrease transmission.

The Ministry of Health assures the public that all protocols for testing, isolation and contact tracing are being followed in order to minimize the risk of transmission.

The prevention of local transmission of the covid-19 in Anguilla is the priority of the Ministry of Health. Therefore, early identification, isolation and treat are the foundation of preventing widespread transmission of the virus.

We remind the public that vaccinations remain a critical component to permit the full and safe re-opening of Anguilla to passenger travel. The Ministry of Health is once again appealing to persons to get vaccinated before the full re-opening of Anguilla. In this regard, only one more day remains for persons to access the vaccine at the JRW Park. This service will be closed tomorrow 30 July 2021 at 4:00 pm.

While we get our vaccine coverage up to the critical mass, the Ministry of Health reminds the public to continue practicing hygienic measures to protect against COVID-19. These include:

• Frequent Handwashing; if water is unavailable utilize an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Covering coughs or sneezes with a disposable tissue or in the crook of a flexed elbow.
• Avoiding contact with persons who are ill with symptoms of acute respiratory infections such as fever or cough.
• Regularly cleaning surfaces and objects that are frequently touched or handled.

Questions or concerns can be directed to the Ministry’s hotlines at 476-7627, that is 476 SOAP or 584-4263, that is 584-HAND. Additionally, persons who have been vaccinated and experience any side effects or adverse reactions are encouraged to report this at 235- 4357 that is 235-HELP. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide timely updates through our media partners, our official Facebook page or at www.beatcovid19.ai.