Bahamas monitoring COVID-19 cluster cases

NASSAU, Bahamas (CMC) – The Bahamas government says it is “closely monitoring a reported cluster of COVID-19 cases in Grand Bahama” following a church retreat which was held from October 8-11 this year. The Ministry of Health and Wellness in a statement said that of the 112 participants, 20 tested positive for COVID-19 via rapid testing. It said 14 of those were confirmed residents of Grand Bahama and the remaining six from New Providence. In addition, the ministry said that of the 14 persons who tested positive, one person in Grand Bahama has been admitted to the Rand Memorial Hospital (RMH) and is listed in stable condition. “Members of the public are reminded to practice prevention protocols by staying up to date with the COVID-19 vaccination, washing hands frequently using soap and water and using an alcohol-based sanitizer, improving indoor ventilation, wearing a well-fitted mask when appropriate, staying home when you are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and taking precautions when you are around older relatives and people who are at high risk of severe illness.” The ministry said that COVID-19 symptoms include fever or chills; cough, sore throat or congestion; fatigue and body aches; headache; loss of taste or smell; shortness of breath; and nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. It said that symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some people may have few or no symptoms but can still transmit the virus. “Persons having difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath; persistent chest pain or pressure; new confusion or inability to stay awake; pale, grey or blue lips,; or any other severe or rapidly worsening symptoms should seek emergency medical attention immediately,” the ministry said.It urged members of the public to be guided only by information released by the Ministry of Health and Wellness or official sources. A total of 844 to 849 cumulative COVID-19 deaths have been officially reported in The Bahamas since the pandemic began. The vast majority of deaths occurred during earlier pandemic surges, peaking around 2021. In recent years (2024–2026), new reported COVID-19 deaths in The Bahamas have dropped to near zero or very minimal numbers.