Health Ministry: 14 People Being Monitored as a Precaution Against Coronavirus

Local health officials have confirmed there are a total of 14 people being monitored as a precaution against what is now the global outbreak of the deadly coronavirus.

But a Ministry spokesperson stressed that to date: “There are no confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV in Bermuda, and no individuals meeting the criteria of ‘suspect case’.”

“There are several individuals under observation due to relevant travel history,” she added.

The 14 individuals are being monitored as per the Centres for Disease Control guidance and individual case management based on risk assessment.

But she said the total number will change as those individuals reach the 14-day mark for the incubation period.

Meanwhile, Bermuda has issued the following travel advice and restrictions:

Direct flights from China: The Government of Bermuda has put a restriction on direct flights from China. Given current commercial routes, this affects only private/corporate aircrafts.

Residents of Bermuda: Travel to mainland China should be avoided at this time due to the risk of the novel coronavirus.  Residents returning from mainland China will undergo a travel risk assessment and may be subject to movement restriction and health monitoring for up to 14 days.

Visitors to Bermuda: If you have spent any time in mainland China in the past 14 days, travel to Bermuda is discouraged.  Arriving visitors will undergo a travel risk assessment by a Health Officer. Depending on risk assessment, they may have their health monitored and movement on island restricted for up to 14 days.

The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit and Health Officers assisting in the prevention and control activities for novel coronavirus are utilizing the guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control for conducting risk assessments on travelers:  Risk Assessment and Public Health Management for Potential 2019-nCoV Exposure in Travel-associated or Community Settings, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/risk-assessment.html

All local health updates can be found at: www.gov.bm/health-data-and-monitoring