The department of Health and Wellness confirmed on Thursday a measles case aboard a cruise ship that has been docked in Castries harbour since April 30. The release also revealed that due to “the highly infectious nature of measles a decision was made not to allow persons to disembark”. For her part, health minister Mary Isaac said: “Our decision to quarantine is in keeping with our laws. We haven’t simply taken this decision unilaterally but are working on the advice of, and in conjunction with, PAHO and CARPHA. We are being very cautious and have done what is necessary to ensure public safety.” Isaac also reassured the public that no-one on island has been infected with the disease.
The press release also confirmed a request of 100 doses of the measles vaccine by the ship’s doctor on Thursday, which the authorities say “is currently being provided from our supplies, at no cost”.
