Minister of Health, Akilah Byron-Nisbett, announced during a press conference on Thursday that the Federation has recorded its first COVID-19-related death.

“At about 12:14 pm we received word that the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has recorded its first death as a result of COVID-19. We wish to extend condolences to the family and loved ones of the dearly departed,” Byron-Nisbett said.

According to the St Kitts and Nevis Information Service Byron-Nisbett reminded the general public that “we are not immune to the ravages of COVID-19, including severe disease, and death it causes. Just yesterday, we were reminded of the significant milestone crossed with (the US)  having 600,000 deaths.” 

She said that COVID-19 continues to threaten every sector of society and all institutions and encouraged one and all to adhere to all health and safety protocols, and stressed the importance of being vaccinated.

She reminded that the vaccine prevents people from getting seriously ill and dying from COVID-19. ‘While we mourn the loss of our first citizen my trust is that it will serve as a wake-up call for all.’

This brings the total number of COVID cases recorded in Saint Kitts and Nevis since the pandemic began to 279- 264 in Saint Kitts, 15 in Nevis.

There are currently 208 active cases in the Federation.

A state of emergency was implemented on June 16 and will expire on July 6.