COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Response Update from the Ministry of Health

21 March 2020

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment wishes to advise that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has consolidated border control to ensure single access at both seaport and the airport in order to intensify the screening process for COVID-19. All private and commercial flights entering the V.C. Bird International Airport will utilise one entry processing point. Private jets that typically land at Runway 10 are now required to present at V.C. Bird International Airport for screening and clearance. All sea vessels, including pleasure crafts, will be processed at the Nevis Street Pier. Clearance will be facilitated at the said pier between the hours of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The Health Ministry also wishes to advise the public that the human resource capacity of the healthcare system will be bolstered with the addition of thirty-one (31) health care workers from Cuba. The Cuban team of six (6) doctors and twenty (25) nurses is expected to arrive on the island next week. The deployment of Cuban medical professionals follows a request from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to help the country enhance its response to COVID-19. These health care providers are specifically trained in disease infection and control. The support of the government of Cuba, reflects the long standing solidarity that exists between both countries.

To date, Antigua and Barbuda has recorded one confirmed case of COVID-19. The patient is recovering well and remains in isolation.