WILLEMSTAD - After 572 people tested, the count is now at 18 positive cases. The 18th is someone who was abroad and has been in contact with the 17th person who tested positive last weekend. Both individuals were already quarantined and are now in isolation. This was announced by epidemiologist Dr. Izzy Gerstenbluth today during a COVID-19 update.
Dr. Gerstenbluth indicated that there is always a chance that people who come from abroad will be infected with the virus. “We knew that. In the U.S., for example, there are many infections.”
“That is why quarantine is important and we also must keep a distance at a snack bar or restaurant, for example. Otherwise, it is not two people who become infected but much more,” said the doctor.
Gerstenbluth explains that there could be a second wave of the coronavirus, but that the care capacity has increased. “Because of 'the new normal' we could stay below the line and the care capacity can handle this.”
“If people from abroad do not go into quarantine, you will see a very rapid upward trend. You may not be able to keep up with this with the care capacity. Chances are that many more people have been infected and you are not aware of it,” said the epidemiologist.
Dr. Gerstenbluth also indicated that before the borders opened, things had to be arranged. Everyone had to be aware of social distancing. “There is no question of local infections now, but if someone is infected from abroad, a super spread can take place if more people come together and do not keep to the distance. Our care capacity also had to increase. That has happened but there is a limit to this.”
