 The island's chief medical officer is urging the public to step up their vigilance ahead of the Christmas season. Noting that the festive season is traditionally a time for shopping, parties and overall merriment, Dr Sharon Belmont-George says the island is at a heightened risk for the spread of COVID-19. Over the last four weeks, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has guided the nation through a second wave of the novel coronavirus, resulting in decreasing cases. As of Tuesday, December 15, 2020, St. Lucia had 31 active cases and 4 total COVID-19 related deaths. There were 243 recoveries, with no critical cases in care. A total of 17,801 tests have been processed. The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to monitor both the global and regional situation and analysis as we assess our risks and make recommendations. We note the steady rate of increasing cases in most countries as they experience their second wave. We continue to monitor closely and we learn from the best practices implemented as we strengthen the existing protocols. As countries open their borders and social and economic activity increases, the risk for transmission also increases. St. Lucia, just like the rest of the world, remains at high risk for the introduction of COVID-19. Our main risks include the increased numbers of returning nationals and visitors from areas of high incidence of disease, the illegal entry through the borders, the non-adherence to protocols, the breaches to home quarantine, and the hosting of mass crowd social events. Every visitor returning national and illegal entrance must be managed as a possible positive COVID-19 case. It is imperative that we remain vigilant at this time to keep ourselves and our families safe. As we celebrate the Christmas season, let us all remain on alert and continue to play our part to protect the health and safety of our family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors. We ask all to minimize their movements, avoid social gatherings, and other activities which will bring about greater exposure to the virus. The CMO commended communities, the business sector, faith-based organizations, the hospitality industry, and other partners who continue to support the national effort in the management of COVID-19.