Podcasts Culture Government of Saint Lucia Public Health Update on COVID-19 and Monkeypox

Public Health Update on COVID-19 and Monkeypox

Published: July 12, 2022, 1:25 a.m.

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The Omicron Variant of Concern (VOC) continues to be the dominant variant circulating. Among Omicron lineages, the proportions of BA5 and BA4 continue to increase. In some countries, the increases have led to surges in hospitalizations, ICU admissions and deaths. COVID-19 vaccination is still expected to provide substantial protection against severe disease although it is noted that the coverage is lowest with these as compared to the original disease. BA4 and BA5 are the fastest spreading variants reported to date.

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In an effort to manage COVID19 cases in country, the Ministry of Health has received 105 vials of the COVID-19 anti-viral drug tocilizumab 400mg from PAHO. This drug will be used to treat severe cases of COVID-19.

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Saint Lucia has received notification from CARPHA of our first confirmed case of BA5. The case is a 36 year old female from Vieux Fort who does not have a history of travel. This suggests in country transmission of BA5 and the presence of other cases.

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