 Today, January 14, 2021, the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 41 new cases of COVID-19. This brings a total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 543. All of these cases are seen in Lushan Nationals, ranging in age from 5 years to 84 years. They are from Castries Viewport, Babunot, Dennery, Ansleray, Miko and Grozely districts. These individuals were seen at the community respiratory clinics where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. They were placed in quarantine by health practitioners, spending the receipt of their test results. Arrangements have been made to place these individuals into isolation. At present, the contact tracing team is in the process of undertaking investigations as it relates to those cases. The Ministry of Health and Wellness also reported two recoveries for today, January 14, 2021. There are currently 216 active cases, with one of them requiring critical care, and the other active cases are stable. The Ministry of Health advises the public that the increasing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases, which have been recorded recently, coincide with the increased risk of spread of the virus during the Christmas season. The recent numbers reflect a reduction in adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, inclusive of close social interactions in the festive season, which increased the risk of exposure to the virus. Today, January 14, 2021, is exactly 14 days since the celebration of the new year, which also marks the completion of a full incubation period for the virus, which health officials have been monitoring from the start of the year. The Ministry anticipated capturing increased cases of COVID-19 at this point in time, as a result of the increased risk of exposure that occurred during the recent New Year's festivities. We cannot afford to reduce our vigilance, as this provides greater opportunity for further spread of the virus. Given our current trend of increased cases being confirmed in country, we again remind everyone that it is necessary to continue practicing the infection prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of the virus. Frequently wash your hands with soap and flowing water. Wear a face mask in public places and ensure that it covers the mouth, nose and chin. Maintain a six-foot distance from others wherever possible. Use a bleed solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and frequently handled objects. Avoid contact with other people who have flu-like symptoms. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keep away from others and seek medical care at your closest community respiratory clinic for assessment. The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates as new information becomes available.