Bahamas News
New Health Minister examines COVID-19 progression in The Bahamas
#NASSAU, The Bahamas — July 23, 2020 – New Minister of Health the Hon. Renward Wells said looking at COVID-19 pandemic evolving in The Bahamas, the nation recorded 104 cases from 15th March to 7th of this month.
However, Minister Wells explained that in startling contrast, from the 8th of July to 22nd July, the nation confirmed 114 cases of COVID-19.
“Let me put it another way. During the four months that our borders were closed, only 104 COVID-19 cases were confirmed. In the two-week period since the opening of the borders, the number of positive cases have more than doubled,” the Minister said during his Contribution to the Debate to Extend Emergency Orders in the House of Assembly, Thursday, July 23, 2020.
“As of last evening, we have 115 active cases, 13 of whom are hospitalised. To date, we have carried out 3,759 tests for COVID-19 in country.”
He explained that the country’s cases are distributed among the following islands: Grand Bahama (73), New Providence (32), Bimini (4), Berry Islands (4), and Cat Island (2).
“We are aware of other cases which will be included in our official numbers today as a part of our COVID-19 data and Dashboard.”
Minister Wells added, “In summary, the majority of our new cases are directly or indirectly as a result of Bahamians’ and residents’ international travel.”
He stated that these are the indicators that provide the basis for the decision of the Competent Authority to extend the Emergency Order to September 30th.
BIS Press Release By Llonella Gilbert