‘COVID-19’ Update and Advisory as at 27 February 2020

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment wishes to again assure the public that there are no suspected cases of COVID-19 within the Caribbean region. The Ministry continues to monitor the air and seaports and will advise regarding any travel updates. The Ministry is appealing to the public that all nonessential travel to the People’s Republic of China be avoided. 

On Wednesday, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda decided that the weekly Italian charter flight company will be compelled to screen passengers originating from Italy and to deny boarding to those Italian citizens travelling from Italian cities that have been quarantined by the Italian Government. Currently, 162 Italian passengers are here in Antigua. These visitors will be returned to Italy on Friday 28th February when the aircraft arrives empty on that same day. 

As COVID-19 spreads internationally, it’s important to know the symptoms and practice preventative measures. Symptoms include coughing, a high temperature, and shortness of breath.

The Ministry also reminds the general public to exercise proper hand hygiene as well as take general measures against becoming ill. The latter includes adequate rest and hydration and the avoidance of sick persons.