The Bahamas is to go into total lockdown come Tuesday (August 4) said Prime Minister Hubert Minnis.
Minnis made the announcement Monday while speaking at a press conference, citing a spike in COVID-19 cases as well as ICU beds at capacity as reasons for the lockdown.
According to Minnis, thirty-one new confirmed COVID-19 cases were recorded on Monday, with the country reporting a significant uptick in cases since opening its borders on July 1.
Minnis further said that he expected a uptick in cases before the current surge is brought under control.
The new lockdown measure means most businesses must remain closed, with the exception of food stores, water depots, pharmacies.
Other businesses such as gas stations and banks are restricted to specific days and hours of operation
Parties and other gatherings are not permitted, while funerals will be limited to only five attendees, excluding funeral home personnel and officiating ministers.
The Bahamas which has a population of about 385,000, currently has 679 confirmed COVID-19 cases.
A National Address by the Prime Minister The Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis.
A National Address by the Prime Minister The Most Hon. Dr. Hubert Minnis, Monday August 3, 2020.
Posted by Office of the Prime Minister – The Bahamas on Monday, August 3, 2020
