Bermuda recorded another 60 positive cases of the Covid-19 virus yesterday, bringing the number of active cases to a record 476.

The positive results were among a batch of 1,660 tests delivered to the department of health.

It is the third highest daily increase in cases since records began.

Of the new cases, just one was imported – from a passenger on board a Delta Airlines flight from New York on Monday.

A further 17 cases are classified as local transmission, while the remaining 42 are under investigation.

One person has recovered from the disease since Tuesday, and the number of those in hospital with the condition has dropped from three to two, with one in intensive care.

Bermuda’s current country status remains at ’sporadic cases’ according to the World Health Organisation.

But in what may be seen as a blow to the island’s reputation for containing the virus, the Pan American Health Organisation has changed Bermuda’s status to ’community transmission’.

And the seven-day average of the island’s real-time reproduction number is now 2.01.

In a statement last night, Kim Wilson, the health minister, made no reference to another hike in numbers.

Instead, she urged residents to get vaccinated, saying it was the most effective way to combat the virus.

She said: “We are making excellent progress in vaccinating our population, and enthusiasm for the vaccine is increasing.

“However, we need to get as many people as possible vaccinated to stop the cycle of infections and re-infections leading to hospitalisations and death.

“The more people vaccinated, the better control we have over the spread of this outbreak. If you have not registered to be vaccinated, I strongly urge you to do so today.

“We are in Phase 3 of our Vaccine Allocation Strategy, so everyone over the age of 16 is eligible to be vaccinated.

“This Easter weekend, we must all exercise good judgement, behave sensibly and resist the urge to interact with people outside of our immediate household.

“Please be patient. Now is not the time to let our guard down for the sake of social get-togethers, parties and gatherings that risk everyone’s safety.

“Remember Bermuda – stay in your household bubble at all times, especially this Easter weekend.”

Ms Wilson urged those in quarantine to remain at home.

She added that anyone with symptoms should consult their physician.

She said: “I will remind the public that if you are in quarantine, you must stay put.

“And if you have symptoms related to Covid, please contact your GP. Please do not show up at their office. You must call first. Let them know that you are symptomatic and in quarantine.

“Each of us has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus. Follow public health guidelines, wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, maintain physical distance and download the WeHealth Bermuda app.

“If you haven’t already, register to get vaccinated.”