By Sue-Ann Wayow
TOBAGO records its highest number of daily Covid-19 related deaths on Sunday. Six people were reported to have died.
More than 200 total deaths have been recorded on the island since the pandemic started in 2020.
Secretary of Health, Wellness and Social Protection, Dr Faith B.Yisrael issued a statement on Sunday urging Tobagonians to get vaccinated against the deadly virus and to observe all health protocols.
She said, “Unfortunately Tobago has recorded its single highest Covid-19 related death toll six within the last 24 hours. We express sincerest condolences to the friends and family of those who have passed.
“To date, Tobago has recorded 201 Covid-19 related deaths. This represents a case fatality rate, number of deaths/number of positive cases, of 3.43%. In comparison, Trinidad and Tobago’s case fatality rate is 3.13%. Unfortunately, Tobago’s small size, our location as an island and our limited medical resources, one functioning hospital and exhausted medical staff puts us in a very dangerous situation.”
Dr B.Yisrael said, “Our five-bed ICU is filled and overflowing. We’ve had to make additional provisions to treat our loved ones who have died with dignity. We continue to hear the public complaints about individuals trying to receive medical, non-Covid-19 related care, but are unable to do so because our system is overwhelmed.”
The secretary said she made mention all of the above to make Tobagonians aware that they may have to live with the virus for maybe at least another year.
“It will therefore be critically important that we collectively and individually do all that we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Please keep washing your hands, wearing your masks correctly, social distancing, staying home when you are ill, and getting vaccinated. Collectively, if we follow these steps, we can withstand the harsh consequences of Covid-19,” she said.
