Health officials have highlighted a rise in incidents of Covid-19 on the island, in the wake of an alert issued by the epidemiology and surveillance unit.

Increased cases were identified through routine surveillance, the Ministry of Health said.

Fresh stocks of an updated Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, designed to target the JN.1 variant of the virus circulating globally, arrived in Bermuda last month.

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, said: “This uptick serves as a reminder that the virus continues to circulate in our community.

“Covid-19 has not gone away, and we are seeing a noticeable rise in cases.”

Ms Wilson reminded the community to adhere to “sensible precautions, particularly to protect our seniors and those with underlying health conditions”.

She added: “Let’s continue to look out for one another.”

Anyone experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms was advised to avoid public settings and refrain from contact with others.

Wearing a mask in “crowded indoor places or when visiting loved ones” was advised by the ministry to help protect those at greater risk, such as older adults and people with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.

Regular handwashing with soap and water, the use of hand sanitiser and the covering of coughs and sneezes are recommended to curtail the spread of the virus.

The community was also reminded to keep up to date with Covid-19 vaccinations, including booster doses if eligible.

The latest vaccine is available by appointment at the Hamilton Health Centre by calling 278-6460, as well as through private healthcare providers.

The ministry advised the public to “test, isolate and inform others”.

Antigen tests remain available at pharmacies, and testing can be obtained through private doctors for those who need confirmation or documentation.

Anyone testing positive was called upon to stay home, follow isolation guidance and inform their close contacts.

More information is online via www.gov.bm/health-information.