COVID-19 WITHIN THE COMMUNITY
The Health Services Directorate would like to advise that a case of COVID-19 has been identified within the community during the past 24 hours.
A person tested positive after developing symptoms and booking a test via the COVID helpline. The individual is experiencing mild symptoms and has been advised by Health staff to isolate at home for five days.
The occurrence of community spread has been expected since the lifting of quarantine on Monday, 8 August 2022. The Health Services Directorate has provided public guidance and advice regarding precautionary measures and what to do if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Appropriate plans and procedures are now in place for the continuance of community spread.
You are advised to follow guidance and to continue practicing the precautionary measures. Being vaccinated is one of the best preventative measures that can be taken. The continuous vaccination programme has to date resulted in approximately 99% of St Helena’s population having received at least two doses of the vaccine. Hand sanitizing and mask wearing may help to slow the spread of the virus.
The COVID-19 Helpline is now in operation; you should call this helpline if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, in order to arrange a COVID test, if required.
The main symptoms of COVID-19 include:
a new continuous cough
a high temperature
a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell
a sore throat
diarrhoea or vomiting
muscle aches and pains
If you have any of these symptoms you should contact the COVID Helpline via tel: 25888.
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SHG
16 August 2022
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT
COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAMME
The Health Services Directorate would like to inform the public that the next round of COVID-19 vaccination clinics will be arranged in September and October 2022 for those requiring a first primary or first booster dose. These clinics will be announced in due course.
The current recommendation for COVID-19 vaccines in the UK is as follows:
5 -11 years – a first and second primary dose
12+ years – a first and second primary with one booster dose
75+ years – first and second primary dose and two booster doses.
The vaccination programme on St Helena has exceeded the UK recommendation by offering a second booster dose to age groups below the recommended 75+ years. This was possible due to having additional doses of the vaccine on-Island.
SHG
16 August 2022
