GRAND CAYMAN (GIS) – With the Cayman Islands cautiously rolling back all but the most basic COVID-19 prevention measures, health officials are still emphasising the role that a strong testing regime plays in the continuation of this process.

With this objective in mind a second cycle of rescreening frontline and other sectors that have recently returned to work has begun, and testing has also been opened to the public. At this time, anyone who wishes to be tested can register for an appointment with the Health Services Authority (HSA).

Although the numbers of test results returning positive for COVID-19 has dropped in the past few weeks, there is no room for complacency says Medical Officer of Health Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez.

Regular testing of frontline and other workers, every four weeks or so, is the only way to determine to what extent the virus has been controlled locally, therefore testing measures will be on-going Dr. Williams explains.

Pointing to the global resurgence of the disease in other reopened economies, he notes that routine screening helps at-risk persons to protect family and friends, as well as keeping the reopening of the economy on track.  In particular he emphasises that, in particular, frontline staff working with the general public should be tested regularly.

The Medical Officer of Health also urges persons experiencing flu-like symptoms and anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the virus to self-register for testing.

Persons may register for screening using the form available on the bottom left of www.exploregov.ky/coronavirus. For organisations seeking to schedule on-site screening for employees please contact [email protected].