Health Minister Kim Wilson confirmed another death due to COVID-19 in Bermuda, bringing the total number of people who have lost their lives due to this virus up to 12.

“This loss is devastating,” said Ms Wilson. “My heart is heavy with the news of another death due to COVID-19.

“I mourn with the family, friends and co-workers of this most recent victim. I am so sorry for this loss.”

Meanwhile, another five people tested positive for COVID-19 in the latest round of 781 test results received by health officials.

There are currently 91 active cases with six people in hospital with the virus – none are in critical care.

One of the five new cases is a resident who arrived here on a British Airways flight from London on New Year’s Day and tested positive on their day four test.

The other four new cases were classified as on-island transmissions with a known contact.

To date, 641 cases have been recorded in Bermuda since March last year.

Since then a total of 538 people have recovered with 85 active cases are being monitored by health officials.

The Minister also urged residents to get tested.

“Please take advantage of the free COVID-19 testing that is offered by the Ministry of Health.

“We have testing slots available, so sign up and make sure you know your status.

“The Ministry of Health cannot vaccinate people who are already infected with COVID-19, or quarantined as a close contact.

“If you or your family falls into one of the priority categories for early vaccination, we encourage you to get tested,” she said.

“We have convenient Covid-19 pop-up testing at various locations around the island.”

Tests can be booked online at coronavirus.gov.bm or via telephone on the COVID-19 hotline at 444-2498 between 9am and 9pm.

The Ministry of Health will also host a public awareness programme about the coronavirus vaccine on Saturday (Jan 8).

A spokeswoman said: “The ministry recognises that there are those in Bermuda who may have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine specifically, and vaccines in general.

“This programme will allow viewers to post their questions online to have them answered by medical professionals.”

The programme, to be aired on CITV at 6pm may also be seen on the Government’s Facebook page.