Saint Lucian Travel Restrictions Extended

Saint Lucian ministry officials announced Monday, May 17, 2021, the travel restrictions would remain in place to curb the pandemic. Unfortunately, the island has seen one death and 24 new cases of Covid-19. These cases appeared within 24 hours before their announcement to extend the travel restrictions.

The prevention and control methods are to remain in place until May 30, 2021. The cases were recorded after 142 people were tested for the virus between May 11 and 14. Five patients have recovered from Covid-19 from previous cases already mentioned in other media posts.

Saint Lucia is not the only place to see an increase in cases recently. Japan has 240 active cases, with two people in intensive care for respiratory issues. Saint Lucia has had 4842 cases of Covid-19 since the pandemic started. The total number of deaths has been 76. The government is asking for citizens and travelers to use prevention and control measures to help stop the spread of Covid-19. A curfew has been implemented from 9 pm to 4 am local time and asks that all institutions and businesses help staff. The request includes all business and commercial activities to be closed. That social gathering is limited to under 10 or fewer relatives.

Private and public gatherings are also under limitations as much as possible. The increase in cases may come from an increase in travel despite the safety protocols in place. The US has relaxed many of its protocols. Several states are returning to a no mask policy as vaccines reach more and more people. However, Covid-19 can still kill, and cases can increase.

All visitors to the island are asked to get a Covid-19 test a few days before travel and to show a negative result before continuing to the island. Passengers are required to stay in specific hotels for safety.