[Updated] The first diagnosed cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in Bermuda, Premier David Burt has just announced.

We will update with the full text as able but in the meantime, the first part of the Premier’s statement said: “Just two hours ago the first diagnosed cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Bermuda. The Government of Bermuda understands that this news will leave many residents concerned and with questions. We understand these concerns and want to reassure you that we are taking this development extremely seriously.

“The situation is still evolving, so we will share with you the information that we have now, and additional details as soon as we have them. Right now we know that two residents are confirmed who have COVID-19. The patients had recently traveled from the United States and the United Kingdom, respectively, and became ill a few days after returning to the island.”

We will update with the full statement as able, and in the meantime the live video replay is below, and you can view all our coverage of the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic here, and our continuously updated live blog here.

Update 6.50pm: Premier David Burt said, ”Good Evening,

”We have called this press conference today to inform you that just two hours ago, the first diagnosed cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in Bermuda.

”The Government of Bermuda understands that this news will leave many residents concerned; and with questions. We understand these concerns and want to reassure you that we are taking this development extremely seriously.

”This situation is still evolving. We will share with you the information we have now and additional details as soon as we have them.

“Right now, we know that two residents are confirmed to have COVID-19.

“The patients had recently traveled from the United States and United Kingdom respectively and became ill three days after returning to the island.

”The two cases are unconnected. Both individuals, who were identified early, are recovering and did not require hospitalization.

”They are presently isolated and have been isolated since they became symptomatic.

”The Ministry of Health is working closely with other ministries across the Government to rapidly investigate this situation and to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

”Our chief concern is how many people had close contact with the individuals once symptoms developed.

”In that regard, we are currently taking the following actions:

”Making sure the individuals are receiving appropriate treatment and remain isolated;

”And interviewing the individuals and close contacts, such as family members, to obtain detailed information on their travel history and exposures and then monitoring the family members to see if they become ill. Currently they are self-quarantined. This may require collecting and testing specimens from those individuals.

”I want to reassure the public that the government has been actively preparing for an event like this as part of the International Health Regulations. Thankfully we will have the ability to screen for Covid-19 on island tomorrow which will aid us in controlling any spread of this virus.

”The Covid-19 EMO will be meeting at 7:00PM to consider any additional social distancing measures that may be put into place.

”I want to encourage everyone in Bermuda to protect themselves to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette. This includes:

”Washing your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water;

”Maintaining social distancing – maintain at least three feet distance between yourself and other people, particularly those who are coughing, sneezing and have a fever.

”And avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

”…And if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early. Call ahead and tell your healthcare provider of your symptoms and travel history. If you have returned to the island it is Urgent that guest workers and Bermudians alike keep yourself quarantined.

”As this is an evolving situation; I am committed to keeping you updated as we work together to reduce the spread of Covid-19 in Bermuda.

In closing, I want to reassure the public that ensuring the health of our citizens is our top priority.

”The Government website gov.bm will be updated this evening to reflect the two imported Covid-19 cases.

”Thank you. I will now take questions from the media.”

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