PCR Covid-19 tests done on Carnival ship crew were negative

All PCR COVID-19 tests done on Carnival Cruise line crewmembers who arrived here on Saturday last were negative.

This is according to a release dated May 12, from the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO).

It was reported last Saturday that of the Vincentians that returned on the Carnival Cruise vessel, two were found on rapid testing to have been exposed to COVID-19.

And the two, along with four others who came in close contact with them were taken to a government facility while the other 81 were allowed to go home to take up mandatory quarantine for 14 days in the first instance.

“The affected Crew members will be released from quarantine within the next twenty-four (24) hours after final medical checks,” Tuesday’s release from NEMO said.

To date, St Vincent and the Grenadines has recorded 17 confirmed cases of the coronavirus.

The release said that recent results from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) on May 12 confirm that there are now 12 recovered cases locally.

“The results are from 23 samples sent on Monday May 11, 2020. No new positive COVID-19 cases were reported. This means that there are now five active cases of COVID -19 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” it said.

The public is being encouraged to use face coverings in a correct and safe manner when physical distancing is not possible as these measures have proven to be “very effective so far in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”.