In light of the country’s confirmation of the presence of the Delta COVID-19 variant on Wednesday (August 18), Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton is once again renewing his call to citizens to “get vaccinated”.

In a video posted to his Twitter page, Tufton sought to once again plead with all well-thinking Jamaicans to do the right thing and get vaccinated to protect themselves and others against the deadly COVID-19 virus.

In the video, he states: “Hello Jamaica. Today is the 18th of August 2021 and I would like to confirm that the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus is present in Jamaica based on test results that we received today.”

“Of the 40 tests done, 22 have confirmed the Delta variant and this represents another phase in the COVID virus in our country and the response that is necessary… . We had assumed that the Delta variant was here, but, now that we have confirmed it, I want to reiterate to all Jamaicans the following…”.

He furthered, stating that the Delta variant is highly transmissible and contagious, even more so than other COVID-19 variants, making it a lot easier to spread.

He added that while vaccinated persons remain at risk of the virus, the risk for unvaccinated persons is significantly higher particularly if mask-wearing, physical distancing and regular hand washing or sanitisation are not practised.

Referencing hospitals, many of which have already reached their COVID-19 patient capacity he stated: “We do not want to overcrowd more than we’ve already our hospitals or put you at risk and therefore it is so important that you recognise the importance of wearing the mask and following the protocols.

He closed, reiterating that “Delta is here and Delta means faster spread, more contagious, easier to catch and easier to spread, so get vaccinated and wear your mask.”