Trinidad and Tobago: Further easing of COVID-19 restrictions from June 1 /update 5

Event

On Monday, June 1, the government of Trinidad and Tobago commenced with the third phase of the easing of restrictions introduced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Malls were permitted to reopen on Monday on the condition that members of the public observe social distancing and wear face masks. Malls are still required to close at 18:00 (local time). Other retail outlets such as bookstores, dentists, opticians, and professional services were also permitted to reopen on Monday. A stay-at-home order remains in place for some non-essential businesses such as spas and hair salons until Monday, June 8. Caribbean Airlines also stated that as of June 1, it would be increasing domestic services between the islands of Trinidad and Tobago following the lifting of restrictions on domestic flights.

On Tuesday, May 12, Trinidad and Tobago commenced the first phase of the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. These measures included the reopening of some business sectors under certain health conditions. Restaurants and other food establishments also reopened for takeaway and delivery services, but in-service dining and congregations of more than five people remain prohibited. Schools will remain shut until September, and churches are not yet permitted to reopen. The country's border remains closed until further notice.

As of Tuesday, June 2, health authorities have recorded 117 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with eight associated deaths. Further international spread of the virus is expected over the coming days and weeks.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (Hubei province, China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in numerous countries and territories worldwide. Virus-screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On March 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the global outbreak a pandemic.

Pneumonia symptoms include dry cough, chest pain, fever, and trouble breathing. Pneumonia can be contagious and can be transmitted from human to human. The influenza virus, or the flu, is a common cause of viral pneumonia.

Advice

Measures adopted by local authorities evolve quickly, and are usually effective immediately. Depending on the evolution of the outbreak in other countries, authorities are likely to modify, at very short notice, the list of countries whose travelers are subject to border control measures or entry restrictions upon their arrival to the territory in question. It is advised to postpone nonessential travel due to the risk that travelers may be refused entry or be subject to quarantine upon their arrival or during their stay.

To reduce the risk of transmission, travelers are advised to abide by the following measures:

• Frequently clean hands by applying an alcohol-based hand rub or washing with soap and water.
• When coughing and sneezing, cover mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue; if used, throw the tissue away immediately and wash hands.
• If experiencing a fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or any other symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness, including pneumonia, call emergency services before going to the doctor or hospital to prevent the potential spread of the disease.