The number of new COVID-19 cases reported by the Ministry of Health have been on the decline since the beginning of February 2023.

At the start of 2023, Jamaica saw a spike in COVID-19 cases that resulted in some Jamaicans adapting previous practices of mask-wearing and sanitisation. There were 175 cases reported from January 10-16 and the numbers continued to rise, crossing the 200 mark between January 24 and 30.

But, when the month of February started, COVID-19 cases began to decline.

For the period of January 31-February 6, 2023 Jamaica recorded 276 new cases, the highest number of new cases for 2023. The cases declined to 160 the following week. In the latest weekly report by the ministry today (February 21) it indicates that there were 131 new cases between February 14 and 20, showing a gradual decline in cases.

Two new deaths

The number of COVID-19 related deaths continue to increase, with two new deaths occurring this month. The total number of death recorded now stands at 3,502. There were also two additional death placed under investigation.

Though the number of new cases are declining, the Ministry of Health is still urging caution and vaccination among citizens. In fact, there are 280 active cases of COVID-19 on the island as of yesterday (February 20).

Vaccination sites can be found at health centres island wide. To find the health centre closest to you visit the Ministry of Health’s website at www.moh.gov.jm.

The number of new cases reported for each parish are as follows: