EMT tests positive for COVID-19, 10 contacts in quarantine

EMT tests positive for COVID-19, 10 contacts in quarantine

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — An Emergency Medical Technician in New Providence has tested positive for the coronavirus after developing symptoms, according to the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA).

In a statement today, the PHA said there is no history of travel or exposure that points toward community-based spread.

Eyewitness News understands the case is connected to a family member with a history of travel.

“The Surveillance Unit of the Ministry of Health is carrying out ongoing contact tracing in this regard,” the authority wrote.

“To date, 10 persons connected to the EMT have been placed in quarantine.

“PHA ambulances and the impacted EMS locations have been professionally cleaned and sanitized.”

The authority continued: “EMS services continue as usual and may be contacted by calling 911/919. The public is reminded to utilize the service of EMS for emergencies only, especially during this COVID- 19 pandemic.

“The PHA urges the public to pay attention to all public health announcements, public service announcements and updates regarding health and hospital services during this time.”

As of yesterday, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country stood at 153.

About Ava Turnquest

Ava Turnquest is the head of the Digital Department at Eyewitness News. Her most notable beat coverage spans but is not limited to politics, immigration and human rights, with a focus especially on minority groups. In 2018, she was nominated by the Bahamas Press Club for “The Eric Wilmott Award for Investigative Journalism”. Ava is deeply motivated by her passion about the role of fourth estate, and uses her pen to inform, educate and sensitize the public.