The Ministry of Health and Wellness confirmed seven COVID-19 related deaths and an additional 55 new cases of the virus between March 7 and 13.

According to the ministry’s weekly report, three of the seven deaths were confirmed in 2023, two occurred in 2021, and another two were from 2022.

The ministry had previously reported that it is difficult to confirm COVID-related deaths due to a delay in reports from hospitals. When deaths occur outside of the hospital, the ministry said that it is also difficult to determine if the person died from COVID. These factors have resulted in delayed reports of COVID deaths.

In addition to the seven deaths confirmed, there was also one death placed under investigation. There are now 349 deaths under investigation that are likely to result in an increase in COVID-related deaths.

As of March 17, the ministry reported 29 recoveries from the virus. However, there are 69 people who still have the virus.

The number of newly reported cases have been fluctuating since the end of February with each week having a higher or lower number of cases.

The ministry of health continues to push vaccination, also encouraging those who have been vaccinated to take their booster shots. Vaccination sites are located at health centres island wide. To find the health centre nearest to you visit the ministry’s website at www.moh.gov.jm.

The number of new COVID-19 cases for each parish are as follows: