Increase in Respiratory Illnesses Expected

Following growing concern in the community about an increase in the spread of COVID-19 in the Cayman Islands, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nick Gent, would like to advise the general public of the following:

• Respiratory illnesses overall have increased;

• Not all respiratory illnesses are caused by COVID-19;

• This overall increase is not only normal but expected during this time of the year, especially in light of the upcoming flu season;

• There has been a small increase in hospital admissions testing positive for COVID-19 in August;

• Current hospitalisations due to respiratory illnesses are in line with previous years;

• The Ministry of Health & Wellness is maintaining vigilance on current and emerging trends and will issue a public advisory if/when necessary.

All persons who are suffering from a respiratory infection, whether caused by COVID-19, influenza or the common cold, are advised to:

• Remain at home if symptomatic (febrile (having or showing symptoms of fever), coughing, running nose, muscle aches, chills)

• Return to work after being symptom free for a minimum of 24 hours (if febrile, 24 hours from when the fever breaks)

• Practice respiratory hygiene (cover mouth/nose when coughing/sneezing, use masks when appropriate, use tissues and dispose of them properly, wash/sanitise hands before/after touching mouth/nose)

Residents and visitors needing additional guidance are encouraged to contact the FLU Hotline on 1-800-534-8600, 947-3077, or email flu@hsa.ky .