May 1 is observed each year in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as International Workers’ Day or May Day, in recognition of the sacrifices and contributions of Vincentian workers.
This year, the COVID-19 Task Force/Health Services Subcommittee of the National Emergency Committee would like the Vincentian public to specially acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding work of our teachers and first responders, nurses, police, immigration and customs officers, coast guard and doctors during this challenging time of COVID-19.
We suggest that a good way to recognize and acknowledge this outstanding work and help them to do their jobs more efficiently, will be to observe the following recommendations for May Day Friday, May 1, 2020:
1. Social Gatherings:
a. Follow the “STAY SAFE! STAY AT HOME!” practice:
i. There should be no river limes, boat rides, beach picnics, or parties or other such gatherings.
ii. The operators of minivans and hired vehicles are asked to continue to ensure vehicle hygiene practices as they safely transport workers in essential services.
2. Physical distancing:
a. Maintain at least 3 feet distance between you and others when in the public.
3. Hand hygiene:
a. Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with liquid soap and running water
b. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water is not available.
(Please visit www.facebook.com/SVGHealth for further information on the correct technique).
4. Facial (fabric masks) coverings:
a. If traveling in public vehicles and standing in crowded places, the correct use of cloth masks (with a pouch to hold a surgical mask or flannel piece to provide additional protection) by the public is strongly recommended.
b. The correct and safe use of masks requires that the front of the mask must not be touched, and cloth masks be washed regularly. (Please visit www.facebook.com/SVGHealth for further information on the correct use).
c. At no time should the mask be placed on the chin or forehead.
These recommendations for limiting close contact and making close contact safe, will go a long way towards reducing the spread of COVID-19. St Vincent and the Grenadines has now recorded a small import related cluster of COVID-19. The support and corporation of all citizens are needed at this time, if we are to minimize any further spread of COVID-19 and to protect all of our workers.
Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache
Chief Medical Officer
Chair Health Services Subcommittee
National Emergency Committee
