The recent increase in novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in Bartica is the result of residents refusing to adhere to preventative measures, according to Mayor Gifford Marshall, who says the region has since recommended the reinstatement of a 12-hour curfew and restrictions on non-essential movement.
As of yesterday, Region Seven had a total of 72 active COVID-19 cases, with Bartica accounting for 65 of that number. The region also recorded 11 deaths due to COVID-19, of which 7 are Bartica residents.
In a statement earlier this week, the Deputy Regional Health Officer (DRHO) disclosed that there has been a spike in cases over the last two weeks, with a number of school children and teachers testing positive for the virus. As a result, Bartica is once again a COVID-19 hotspot in Region Seven.
