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Covid-19 test results expected next week

The strain of coronavirus that causes Covid-19 (Image by NIAID-RML/AP)

Five more people have been tested for a potential killer strain of coronavirus, the Ministry of Health revealed yesterday.A ministry spokeswoman added that 22 people were “self-monitoring with public health supervision” as a precaution against Covid-19.The spokeswoman said: “It should be noted that persons undergoing testing are under self-isolation.“A rapid response team will be created in collaboration with community healthcare professionals to increase capacity for detection of potential cases of Covid-19.”Test results from the Caribbean Public Health Agency are expected early next week.The spokeswoman said: “Over the weekend, religious organisations were sent guidance to share with their congregations to assist in spreading the word about preventive measures the population can take now.”The document sent to churches urged the public to wash their hands thoroughly, avoid touching their faces and not to go to work, school or social gatherings if they fall ill.More than 3,800 people have died of the virus around the world since it appeared in China and more than 108,000 people have been infected.There have been no confirmed cases in Bermuda.The ministry has said that travellers who have been in affected areas should be prepared to self-quarantine until a risk assessment is completed by a public health officer. A public health officer will then assess what public health measures should be implemented based on the travellers’ risk level. A spokeswoman said: “Public health measures may include active monitoring or supervision of self-monitoring by public health authorities, or the application of movement restrictions, including isolation and quarantine, when needed to prevent the possible spread of Covid-19 in Bermuda.”• To view the government fact sheet for guidance on religious gatherings. cick on the PDF link under “Related Media”