Passenger tests positive for COVID-19

Another incoming traveler has tested positive for COVID-19 on the mandatory fifth-day test last Nov. 28, raising the CNMI’s cumulative total to 105.

According to a statement by the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp., the individual has been transported to the quarantine site, the Alternative Care Site at the Kanoa Resort in Susupe. CHCC has already initiated contact tracing for the most immediate contacts. Right now, there are two people in isolation at the Kanoa Resort.

Meantime, the CNMI marked a milestone last Thanksgiving by marking 100 days of zero community transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Yesterday marked the 104th day and CHCC chief executive officer Esther Muña believes this confirms “that our system here in the CNMI works—being transparent and consistent in our protocols, which provides confidence for our community to contribute with vigilance.”

Muña pointed out that there are many agencies involved that ensure that the directives that are issued by Gov. Ralph DLG Torres and the Governor’s COVID-19 Task Force are followed, including Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Service, Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Commonwealth Ports Authority, CNMI Department of Finance, the Customs Division, and many others.

“We were collecting data since Day 1 and that drives our decisions to implement and adjust protocols and ensure that our community is safe—to maximize benefits and minimize harm. More is happening as we add vaccine planning into our mission, so we still need everyone’s patience, understanding, and continuous vigilance in the coming months,” said Muña.

COVID-19 in Guam

The Joint Information Center in Guam reported Guam’s 112th COVID-19-related fatality last Nov. 25, which happened at the Guam Regional Medical City at approximately 8:20pm. The patient was an 81-year-old male with underlying conditions that were further compounded by COVID-19. He was admitted to GRMC last Nov. 25, and tested positive upon admission.

According to JIC, a total of 63 COVID-19 cases were reported from Nov. 25-26. Forty-three of these cases were reported last Nov. 26, and of these cases, 26 were identified through contact tracing and two reported recent travel and were identified in quarantine.

As of Nov. 27, Guam’s COVID-19 Area Risk Score is 6.7. The CAR Score accounts for the incidence of new cases, how well current testing identifies these cases, and the rate of spread. According to JIC, the ideal CAR Score for Guam is 5.0 and below.