Regional COVID-19 Task Force urges caution

Most visitors to the Caribbean and citizens of the region have been trying to limit the spread of COVID-19, but a regional coalition has also issued an important warning.

According to the Caribbean Tourism COVID-19 Task Force (CTCTF), which comprises the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the Caribbean Public Health Agency, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, the region has been doing well to control the spread of the disease.

In a recently released statement, the Task Force said for the most part, tourists and residents continue to follow the protocols and practices that serve to protect them and those around them. However, while commending the region, the CTCTF warned that in the coming weeks of the height of the winter tourist season, “it will be critical to the region’s ability to control the virus’ spread and its highly contagious variants which are spiking around the world.”

The Task Force noted that COVID-19 and the newest variant, Omicron, can easily spread during large indoor gatherings and wherever people come in close contact when they are not protected.

“Face coverings, physical distancing, frequent hand washing, and avoiding large gatherings, particularly with unprotected individuals, should guide behaviours during the festive season,” the Task Force maintained.

The CTCTF added: “While those who are fully vaccinated have far greater protection against severe illness and death than those who are unvaccinated, the public is reminded that everyone, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, can still catch and transmit the virus and should diligently adhere to health and safety measures.”

The Task Force reminded that the pandemic has forced residents to adapt and adjust the ways they gather and socialize, advising that the holiday season might be the biggest challenge yet. It said: “By remaining mindful of the highly infectious nature of coronavirus, residents are advised that they can still enjoy the holidays while protecting themselves.” (IMC1)