The Bahamas continues to struggle to lower COVID-19 case numbers. The Ministry of Health recorded 15 additional cases on Monday and states that two more deaths are under investigation. The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country is now at 1,813, and total deaths are now at 48.
New Providence leads in confirmed cases with 1,039 followed by Grand Bahama with 525, 66 in Abaco, 53 in Bimini, 19 in Exuma, 15 in the Berry Islands, 8 in Cat Island, 8 in Iguana, 5 in Eleuthera, 4 in Acklins, 2 in Crooked Island, and 1 in Andros.
“The Ministry of Health also confirms that there were two deaths reported today that are under investigation,” a statement released shortly before midnight said. “Details about these deaths will be released once they have been properly classified. Hence, the death toll currently stands at 48. Also, one death has been classified as a confirmed non-COVID related death. Hence, non-COVID related deaths now tally at six.”
The Bahamas has seen a rise in case numbers ever since reopening its borders to international travel on July 1st. Within 3 weeks the country was forced to limit tourists, allowing them from only a few regions with the U.S. being notably absent.
However, COVID-19 cases continue to surge. Exuma was spared during the first wave, with no confirmed cases. Now the province has 19 confirmed cases.
The rising case numbers have resulted in a number of changes in the country. Certain industries such as restaurants were forced to close, and a strict lockdown was enforced. The Bahamas is now focusing on contact tracing in an effort to reduce the spread.
It’s unknown how long the country will be shut down and when international travel will be allowed again. Tourism plays a major role in the economy, and many industries are suffering as a result.