Now is not the time for panic – PM Gonsalves

Vincentians have again been cautioned against hysteria and irrationality in relation to Covid-19 following the death of a pregnant woman in Jamaica who was denied care because she had flu-like symptoms.

In a call to the Shake Up program on We FM on Tuesday, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said now is not the time to panic.

“You see where fear can take you? This irrationality, this hysteria? You see why on this matter I have been calm and asking people on this matter to simmer down…? Dr Gonsalves told listeners.

The Jamaica Gleaner reported on April 26 that Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness Dr Christopher Tufton had ordered an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of first time mother who reportedly had flu-like symptoms while in labour, and was denied treatment by more than one hospital.

She died shortly after giving birth.

Gonsalves noted that since St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) recorded its first COVID-19 case, there have been at least three deliveries with the patients displaying flu-like systems.

“We did the deliveries and in none of the cases was the person tested positive and things went smoothly. In Jamaica, a 24-year-old woman died after being sent to four different hospitals and if the reports are right, specialist doctors including anesthesiologist refused to participate in the delivery of the child because of fear,” Gonsalves said.

He asked that people understand why sound leadership is important in times like these.

“You can’t jump behind everybody, a DJ who considers himself a commentator on everything….who doesn’t reflect properly on the issues…or somebody who posts something on YouTube involving all sorts of activities.

“These are side shows, absolute sideshows and it is time for persons not to be derailed by sideshows,” Gonsalves stated while encouraging the public to listen to responsible leadership on COVID-19.