The sharp decline in COVID-19 cases during November reported in Tuesday’s edition is good news. There were 23 positive test results, just over a third of the 66 in October.
Eight patients with related complications were still hospitalised, although all older than 60. More importantly, none passed away.
Nevertheless, one should keep in mind that proof of vaccination or testing is no longer required since last month for incoming travellers. In addition, local suspected cases are not obligated to isolate and test anymore for some time, which – partly due to often mild flu-like symptoms – happens less and less.
It’s interesting to note as well that in the Dutch Caribbean only Aruba saw an increase in infections from 187 in October to 266 and in hospital admissions from 18 to 30, including five minors. Perhaps this has nothing to do with it, but unlike neighbouring Curaçao, which has the Netherlands as main tourism market, Aruba gets most visitors from North America.
The latter counts for St. Maarten too and there are indications that certain areas in the US where many passengers either originate or pass through have seen significant COVID-19 spikes lately. With facemask-wearing and other precautions largely dropped by now, the risk of contracting and spreading the disease may even have grown.
There is no reason to panic, however, especially since booster shots against the now-predominant Omicron variants of the virus are readily available free of charge. Taking such, just like with the earlier injections, remains a personal decision.
The holiday season is obviously known for coming together and getting close. This column is not meant to discourage anyone from doing so and enjoying the festivities, but stay alert, exercise appropriate caution and don’t let your guard down.
