18-year-old among 2 new deaths

…over 2,300 new COVID-19 infections so far in October

Coronavirus deaths for October have reached 78, after two more persons succumbed to the virus. Guyana’s death toll is now 877.
New deaths were announced on Tuesday by the Health Ministry. An unvaccinated 18-year female died on October 19 while a partially vaccinated 50-year-old male succumbed on October 18. They both hailed from Region 10.
This publication understands that the latter was the Head Teacher of Mackenzie High School, Haslyn Small. He was being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and suffered from other underlying illnesses.
For the month of October, there have been 2307 new infections – 94 of which were recorded on Tuesday.
A total of 23 persons are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 118 in institutional isolation, 3512 in home isolation and five in institutional quarantine. This represents 3653 active cases. Out of the 16,369 males and 18,239 females that contracted the virus, 30,978 have recovered.
Some 340,480 COVID-19 tests have been administered since the virus was detected here.
Regionally, a breakdown showed 10 new cases in Region One (Barima-Waini); 12 for Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); five in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 35 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica); six in Region Five (Demerara-Mahaica); 23 in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); two in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); one in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); one in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and one in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
Recent vaccination statistics show a 373,398 first dose uptake or 72.8 per cent. Second doses are at 231,729 or 45.2 per cent of the adult population. For the Pfizer vaccine, 26,391 doses or 36.2 per cent have been administered to children; with 17,379 children returning for their second dose.
This week’s breakdown of vaccination statistics would have shown Regions Two and 10 lagging behind in the national immunisation campaign, with 59.3 and 32.5 per cent respectively. These areas have seen a jump in infections over the last few weeks. On the other end of the spectrum, Region Four is leading with 81.6 per cent while other regions are moving apace.
In Monday’s briefing, it was pointed out that persons suffering from HIV are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19. This can be exacerbated if they are not taking any medication for their condition.
Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony had shared, “It is recommended that persons with HIV take the COVID-19 vaccine because it’s going to protect them. The benefits of getting vaccinated far outweighs the risks. In some cases, persons who would have had their immune system compromised, it is also recommended that they get a third dose or a booster shot. Any one of the vaccines that we are currently using for the adult population can be used for HIV patients.”
If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, they are asked to contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy
All Guyanese are reminded to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures which emphasise: the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving your home; the importance of maintaining the six feet physical distance from others; and the need for good hand hygiene. (G12)