By Sue-Ann Wayow
THERE are two more cases of the Delta variant of the Covid-19 virus in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday evening that as at 6.09pm, the cases were confirmed.
T&T now has five confirmed cases of the Delta variant in the country.
The ministry stated the fourth and fifth patients recently returned to Trinidad from the United States and Guyana respectively. Following quarantine protocols, both persons provided negative PCR tests which were taken 72-hours prior to arrival.
The ministry stated, “As a result of their positive Covid-19 results from swabs taken after arrival, both patients were isolated at a State step-down facility. The patients will remain in isolation until they meet the enhanced discharge criteria for persons with Covid-19 variants of Concern.”
The presence of the Delta variants was confirmed via gene sequencing at the laboratory of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, the ministry stated.
With the increase in Delta cases, the ministry reminded the public that the Delta variant was more transmissible and evidence indicates that individuals who have contracted this variant may be prone to an increased risk of severe illness and hospitalisation. This variant may also lead to an increase in cases of Covid-19 in younger age groups and in those who have been previously infected.
The Ministry of Health stated that vaccination can prevent adverse effects of the virus and urged the population to maintain all health protocols.
