There were 325 test results received by the Ministry of Health; and one was positive for Covid-19, with the Ministry confirming that the positive test result was from a member of the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service [BFRS].
A spokesperson said, “Today’s report of Covid-19 results is as follows: There were 325 test results received by the Ministry of Health; and one was positive for Covid-19. Bermuda now has 115 total confirmed positive cases. Their status is as follows:
- there are 57 active cases, of which
- 41 persons are under active public health monitoring, and
- 16 persons are hospitalized
- a total of 51 have now recovered, and
- the total deceased is 7.
“The average age of all of our confirmed positive cases is 59 and the age range of all of our positive cases is from 18 to 95 years. The age of persons hospitalized ranges between 57 and 91 years, and the average age is 76.
“The Ministry of Health can confirm that the positive Covid-19 result was obtained on a member of the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service [BFRS]. This individual was well and was being tested as part of the government’s screening of essential workers. The individual has been isolated from work and household contacts and will be monitored by healthcare professionals. Workplace contacts have been identified and will be quarantined.
“Last week, 98 members of the BFRS were screened for Covid-19 and this is the single positive result. This situation reminds us of the occurrence of asymptomatic infections of Covid-19 and the importance of our continued attention to physical distancing, hand and respiratory hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus through the community.
“Screening testing of essential workers, such as healthcare professionals, private home health aides, grocery store workers, will continue at the Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory [MDL] at the Southside Drive-thru venue on a daily basis from 2 pm-7 pm, by appointment. Public Officers are also encouraged to get tested by 8 May. Appointments should be made on-line at: https://essentialworkers.resqwest.com
“Individuals attending appointments should be prepared to confirm their General Practitioner and contact details to allow efficient communication of test results and appropriate public health action.”
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In addressing the fact that a member of the BFRS had a positive Covid-19 test result, Minister of National Security Wayne Caines said, “First and foremost, I wish to extend my appreciation and support to all our uniformed essential services workers who are on the frontlines doing their part to keep our community safe during this concerning time.
“Last week, 98 members of the BFRS were screened for Covid-19 and this is the single positive result. On behalf of the Ministry our thoughts particularly go out to the BFRS officer affected.
“That said, I want to assure the public that the BFRS has activated its Pandemic Plan and the team member has been isolated. All close contact colleagues have been identified and quarantined.
“The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit have been consulted to provide guidance and follow up. In response to contact tracing information we have undertaken to temporarily close two of our fire stations to allow for deep cleaning. These stations will resume normal services this evening and tomorrow, respectively.
“To ensure we continue to provide a robust emergency response to the Island, we have increased our resources at the Hamilton Station. Senior Officers have been redeployed to support emergency response at the western and eastern ends of the island, with additional support provided by the Eastern Volunteer Division.
“The Airport Operations Division continues to operate as normal, providing fire coverage for the L.F. Wade International Airport.
“Lastly, the mental health and welfare of our staff is our highest priority. We have the support of the Employee Assistance Program [EAP] and have encouraged the utilization of their services. We recognize that all our emergency services personnel continue to face incredible risks on a daily basis as they carry out their duties.
“In that regard, I cannot stress enough how critically important it is that the public continue to adhere to the physical distancing guidelines that have been outlined by the Ministry of Health. As we have seen, this is a highly contagious virus that has taken the lives of seven Bermudians.
“Ultimately, this is about protecting and saving lives. And now more than ever, we urge the public to please be responsible in how they engage with others as they move around the island.”
