At the COVID-19 press conference today, Friday, 3 July 2020, Cayman Islands' leaders expressed continuing optimism at the control and management of the infection in the Islands, which includes new positive cases remaining very low. The Cayman Islands are at a very good point in relation to COVID-19 at this time.
They also noted that more re-openings commence on Sunday, 5 July on schedule which include all restaurants and bars opening full indoor and outdoor service, as well as all gyms, summer camps and vacation bible schools, all with social distance restrictions.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. John Lee reported:
Out of 316 test results today, all are negative.
Of a total of 201 positives, there are no symptomatic, six are asymptomatic, none admitted and 194 have recovered.
There are 63 individuals at government run isolation facilities and 23 in home isolation.
The 'flu clinic had 5 visits, with three having mild 'flu symptoms and the 'flu hotline had one 'flu related out of 13 calls on Thursday.
All those called by Public Health to get retested are requested to heed the call, and be tested. This is to ensure there are no outbreaks.
Of 994 antibody screening tests carried out so far, two thirds were done at the HSA and one third at Health City. Predominantly covering former PCR test positives and healthcare workers, 41 of those tested are positive for antibodies. Of these, 33 were known positives with PCR tests, three contacted for presenting positive and five had no history of being positive on PCR tests. Additionally, nine previous PCR positives were negative for any antibodies.
Dr. Lee revealed a gadget he is testing which may be useful in monitoring persons in the future that come into the jurisdiction.
Premier Hon. Alden McLaughlin said:
The continuing low positive tests are excellent news as CI continues to reopen the economy and society.
More significant re-openings commence on Sunday, 5 July.
The low interest loan programme for small business is going well, with so far 65 applications received with a total value of $2.221 million. Five have been approved so far.
His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Martyn Roper said:
Cayman Islands test results are "extremely encouraging".
The situation in the US is worrying and being watched carefully. "COVID remains a marathon, not a sprint."
Cayman has done three things to be successful in managing the infection so far with its "calm, clear leadership", its strong Public Health system and individuals taking responsibility and being serious about it.
The BA flight to Chennai India left successfully today with 270 Indian nationals and 50 others travelling for humanitarian reasons on the same flight and disembarking in London.
Airbridge BA flights will depart on 31 July and 28 August for benefit of students to the UK.
All those who wish to return to the CI on these flights should register at www.exploregov.ky/traveltime.
Health Minister Dwayne Seymour said:
The National Gallery in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the private sector are offering one-time artist grants of $1,000 per artist (20 grants are available on a first come, first served basis).
The mosquito creating the irritating situation felt across the island is known as the Black Salt Marsh Mosquito but is not a disease carrier.