Foreign Minister tests positive for COVID-19

President Irfaan Ali having his sample taken for testing following the announcement on yesterday (Office of the President photo)

President Irfaan Ali yesterday announced that Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Hugh Todd has tested positive for the novel coronavirus and as such widespread contact tracing is expected to take place.

The announcement was made by President Ali during a special broadcast by the Office of the President during which he disclosed that Todd, had reported to him that he had come into contact with someone who had tested positive for COVID-19 and subsequently underwent testing which showed that he was positive for the virus. However, no indication was given as to whether the minister was showing any signs or symptoms of the virus.

“I have since advised him to inform all individuals, whom he came into contact with, to work with the Minister of Health to facilitate contact tracing and possible testing,” the president said. This now means that contact tracing on a large scale must be conducted as Todd and other ministers were in large gatherings since being sworn into office last Wednesday.