A couple of months ago, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, was once the epicenter of COVID-19 in Belize, with hundreds of positive cases. The situation is different now, and the latest report from the Ministry of Health (MOH) recorded less than 40 active, positive cases on the island. However, islanders are reminded to comply with safety mandates such as wearing masks, proper handwashing, and practicing social distancing.
The official report has San Pedro Town at 36 active cases, a significant decrease compared to August when San Pedro saw a spike in COVID-19 infections and was subsequently placed under lockdown. Today, Orange Walk District is the epicenter, reporting 401 active cases out of 1,024 positive infected persons. Orange Walk has also reported the majority of the 45 deaths caused by the virus.
Random and rapid testing continues in San Pedro
In San Pedro, random testing has been ongoing, particularly at construction sites and other potentially vulnerable areas. Rapid testing is now available on the island, producing results in around 30 minutes. Island residents are reminded that if they experience any symptoms, such as flu-related fever, loss of smell and/or taste, to visit the Mar del Tumbo clinic for testing. The clinic opens from 8AM to 5PM and for emergencies, call phone number 672-0911.
COVID-19 cases continue to be reported daily by MOH. At press time, 2,886 cases have been confirmed countrywide, of which 1,114 remain active, and 1,727 have recovered. The fatality rate is slowly increasing and currently stands near 2%.