MARIGOT:---The health situation on the island is becoming increasingly worrying. The ARS currently lists 41 active cases since July 17, as much as in the period from March 1 to May 29 Sint Maarten registers 129 active cases over the same period of time.
The very large increase in COVID-19 cases on the island reminds us that the virus is present and is circulating. One death registered on the French side and two on the Dutch side in less than two weeks.
The screening campaign in partnership with Red Cross continues. It's important to continue being screened with or without symptoms. In this context, 653 samples were carried out on volunteers for a total of 2858 tests since the beginning of the epidemic.
Movement restriction measures can be implemented to combat the epidemic.
The new conditions of entry into Saint Martin since Sint Maarten established on July 31, 2020, aim to control the epidemic. However, cross-border travel without compelling professional or health grounds remains numerous. This behavior must stop. As a reminder, the return on French is only possible upon presentation of a certificate issued by the Prefecture or a form C issued by the Government of Sint Maarten or the KPSM. Any offender will be rebuked.
In order to stem the spread of the virus on our island, more restrictive measures could be implemented in the coming weeks. Inter-island travels (to Guadeloupe and Martinique) may be subject to compelling reasons and a negative PCR test carried out 72 hours before departure. People gatherings, already limited, could be further reduced.
The implementation of these measures depends on the evolution of the number of cases. Thus, the greatest vigilance must be observed by the entire population. We remind you that respect for barrier gestures and wearing masks are essential in the fight against the virus.
The goal is to avoid reaching the capacity limits of our healthcare system.
Population health is the only argument that must guide our decisions.
