Delta variant on Bonaire causes the return to risk level 2.
In a recent press conference, Lieutenant Governor Edison Rijna expressed his concern with the steady increase in active cases of COVID-19 and the discovery of the Delta variant on Bonaire. He further announced that Bonaire would return to risk level 2 on Friday, July 23rd.
Here is a transcript of Lt. Governor Rijna’s speech.
The number of COVID-19 infections has been increasing on Bonaire in recent days. That’s why I decided to move to a higher risk level. From Friday, July 23, Bonaire will go to risk level 2. This means that the situation is worrisome. Necessary steps must be taken to protect our society.
The Delta variant of COVID has reached Bonaire. The Delta variant is much more contagious than when the coronavirus pandemic started. People who are not vaccinated or are not fully vaccinated are at a greater risk of becoming very ill. Currently, there are no COVID cases in the hospital yet, and a large part of the Bonairean society is vaccinated. That is why we decided not to move to an even higher risk level. I strongly urge people to get vaccinated.
A current concern is that many people are returning from vacation or coming to Bonaire as tourists. Although we are careful and ask people to be tested before coming to Bonaire, the Delta variant has arrived on Bonaire. That is why we have placed the Netherlands on the list of very high-risk countries as of last Monday. Apart from the negative PCR test to enter Bonaire, travelers from the Netherlands must take a PCR test five days after arrival.
For the time being, there are no consequences for the bubble between the ABC islands. Vaccinated persons can fly without restriction between these islands, but keep in mind that this can change at any time. It’s up to each of us to make sure the virus doesn’t get a chance to spread further.
The way to ensure that the virus does not continue to spread is to stick to the measures. Wash your hands with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, avoid gatherings, don’t touch your face, and stay 1.5 meters away from others. If we don’t do this, we will soon have more infections, and we will have to tighten the measures and move to a higher risk level. For now, if we adhere to these guidelines, the risk level 2 is sufficient.
Risk level 2 means, among other things, that there will be no singing or dancing for the time being, both indoors and outdoors. The Delta variant moves very quickly from person to person via droplets in the air. Singing and dancing close together will lead to more COVID cases. That is why nightclubs will close. Events with more than 50 people are not allowed, and no more than 50% capacity. Action will be taken against anyone who does not adhere to these rules to protect Bonerian society.
I also want to say that shelters for the elderly must adhere to the basic rules that I have already mentioned. There is no limit to the number of people here. Indoor sports can continue. If it is with an audience, then only 50% capacity is allowed. There are no additional rules for outdoor sports. Places such as restaurants and gyms have to register their visitors again.
We must be aware that the coronavirus, with all its variants, is a threat to our society and our way of life. And now, with the Delta variant, we ask even more to be careful. The virus doesn’t just disappear because the numbers are low. We must bear in mind that it is still here. We must protect ourselves. Stick to the known basic measures to prevent you and those around you from getting sick. Finally, get vaccinated.
(Source: OLB)
