For Immediate Dispatch
(Roseau, Dominica: March 20, 2020) The Ministry of Tourism, International Transport and Maritime Initiatives organized a National Consultation on Dominica’s response to the COVID-19 chaired by the Prime Minister Hon Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit.
Ministers of Cabinet were in attendance as well as leaders of private sector and civil society. The Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association, Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce, the Unions, Bank and Financial Institution Association, church and sports organizations were among those invited to make contributions on the impacts, actions being taken and recommendations for Dominica’s response to the COVID-19.
The following resulted from the National Consultation:
- Government’s Intent to convene a parliamentary committee to review and prepare a response to the COVID-19 and Dominica
- The appointment of Coordinator along with other personnel to lead Dominica’s response to COVID-19 and assist with logistical matters
- Commitment by all involved to work with Government to address and implement the necessary steps to address COVD-19
Additionally, the following were reiterated
- Dominica is following the protocols set forth by the WHO, PAHO and CARPHA. We acknowledge the four stages of WHO Risk Management Approach to an Influenza Pandemic and confirm that Dominica is currently at Stage 1 – Confirmation that there are no reported cases of COVID-19 on island. Consequently, led by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and New Health Investments but orchestrated in a multi sectoral approach, all the preventative steps are being adhered to and taken on island.
At the Ports:
- The Government of Dominica has not closed its borders to travelers, however it is implementing stringent protocols at its ports of entry in accordance with relevant health advice.
- The Government is using data from the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) in combination with ensuring that question #17 of the Customs/Immigration form is filled out so as to indicate the travelers most recent travels. Additionally, all passengers are provided with a separate questionnaire that must be filled out in order to ascertain and confirm their recent travel and sent in advance to allow for appropriate preparation by Port Authorities
- Special protocols have been set up for travelers from the identified hotspots and special screenings in an isolated area is being undertaken for travelers showing symptoms upon entry into the destination.
- Hand sanitizers have been installed for use by the travelling public, frequent hand washing with soap and water is being encouraged, and the ports of entry are undergoing deep cleaning frequently in accordance with the protocols.
At the Hotels
- Protocols for employees and guests of accommodations have been established and communicated.
- They indicate actions to be taken should a guest or employee exhibit symptoms of COVID-19.
- These protocols call for the symptomatic individual and all contacts to be provided with masks, isolated and health personnel to be notified
- At which point the health professionals will take over
- (A document detailing the protocol is attached)
For more information, please contact the Ministry of Health, Wellness and New Health Investments at:
Medical Hotlines: 1 767 448 2151 or 1 767 611 4325 or Toll Free at 1800 219
Websites: health@dominica.gov.dm or www.dominica.gov.dm
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