With more relaxed COVID-19 prevention protocols now in effect, Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton is reminding citizens that the relaxation of measures does not mean a “free for all”.

Instead, citizens should be mindful that with this new found freedom comes great responsibility.

Speaking during a COVID-19 briefing held on Thursday (July 1), Tufton stated: “Given that we have had some restrictions lifted, such as curfew hours which effective July 1 goes up to 11 pm Mondays to Saturdays and 6 pm on Sundays, it means that persons are now freer to move around… it means that we have to conduct ourselves in a way that observes the protocol, hand sanitising, mask-wearing, and recognise that this is not a free for all… .”

He noted: “We could get back into dangerous territory where the virus can affect us and clearly has the potential to claim lives… .”

Referencing the relaxed measures which include a reopening of the entertainment sector, an increased gathering limit for events, funerals and church services, Tufton stated, “we do encourage persons to continue to comply (with the COVID-19 prevention protocols)”.

Tufton’s sentiments echo those of Prime Minister Andrew Holness who advised in Parliament on June 22, that citizens not see the new measures as a “free for all” but instead “commit to being responsible and diligent so that in the
process of trying to preserve the livelihoods of so many who have not been able to earn a living since the pandemic
began, we do not endanger lives”.

As of July 1, Jamaica has confirmed 50,242 COVID-19 cases and 1,082 related deaths.