Seven Royal Caribbean seafarers test positive for Covid-19 virus on PCR

St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) yesterday recorded seven new COVID-19 cases, following the receipt of 77 PCR results from the Caribbean Public Health Agency – CARPHA, a release from the National Emergency Management Organzation (NEMO) said.

These latest results were received in batches during the evening of Wednesday May 27, 2020 and brings the number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded in SVG to 25.

The new positive cases, all of whom had previously tested positive on rapid antibody tests, are from 65 tests belonging to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL) crew members who arrived here on Tuesday, May 26 on the Vision of the Seas.

The remaining 58 test results received on Wednesday 27 May, for the RCCL crew members were negative. There are 292 PCR results still outstanding for the RCCL crew members.

There are now 11 active cases of COVID -19 in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Fourteen persons have already recovered. A total of 25 COVID-19 cases have now been recorded. All of the active cases are in isolation.

“RCCL Crew members who tested positive on rapid, but negative on PCR, will remain in a government approved quarantine facility, until a second PCR is conducted. Crew members who test negative for COVID-19 on both rapid and PCR will be allowed to disembark, to continue strict quarantine in approved private accommodations (their homes or privately rented apartments), when results for all crew members have been received,” the release said.

The Health Services Sub-Committee will continue to endeavour to first ensure that all individuals are advised of their PCR COVID-19 results before the public is informed.