News Release: Hamilton, Bermuda – The Government of Bermuda is reminding that under the Public Health Act 1949 (Section 88) a Closure Notice has been issued and is in immediate effect.
The Closure Notice is in an effort to reduce possible community spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
Under the Notice, the Minister of Health, Kim Wilson has Ordered the following establishments closed effective March 21, 2020.
For public clarity, the establishments are as follows:
- Schools
- Swimming pools in hotels, Airbnb and guest houses
- Beauty salons, spas and barbers
- Church services (except funerals)
- Organised sports club activities with more than 50 people; and
- Concerts with more than 50 people
Failure to adhere to the Closure Notice will result in penalties as outlined in Section 186 of the Public Health Act 1949 which states:
- $1,000 fine first offence; second and subsequent offence will result in conviction of three [3] months imprisonment or a $5,000 fine or both. And where the offense is a continuing offense, in addition to the above punishment of $500 fine per day
The Order is attached for reference. The public is reminded that quarantine measures are now enforceable under the Public Health Regulations 2020. The measure of self-quarantine is an important and significant step to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Enforceable penalties include a fine of up to $6,000 for a first offense and for a second offence up to $10,000 or imprisonment for three months. It is vital that all persons under self-quarantine follow the self-quarantine guidelines. Visit the link to review the guidelines here.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of National Security have issued updated Social Distancing and Closure Schedule guidelines.”
