Guam has an additional three confirmed cases of COVID-19, a release from the Joint Information Center stated Wednesday night.

The number of confirmed cases on Guam is now at eight.

The Department of Public Health and Social Services tested 20 individuals for COVID-19 on Wednesday and 17 tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 while three tested positive.

A total of 65 tests were performed from March 12 through March 18.

To date, a total of eight cases tested positive and 57 cases tested negative for COVID-19.

All three new cases remain in isolation, JIC stated.

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As part of the government of Guam's coordinated COVID-19 response, Public Health continues contact tracing for the eight positive COVID-19 cases identified this week.

The contact tracing investigation includes identifying close contacts of the individuals. Close contacts may include family members and co-workers who will be quarantined and actively monitored by Public Health for 14 days after their last contact with the case.

Expect longer waits at airport

GovGuam has instituted COVID-19 Mandatory Quarantine Protocol measures for all incoming travelers from the Philippines.

Any and all travelers arriving must have a Public Health recognized and certified document that attests the traveler is not infected with COVID-19.

The certificate must show that the test was taken within 72 hours of the traveler's arrival on Guam. Without these credentials, passengers will be subject to mandatory quarantine.

Family members of individuals arriving to Guam should be advised that there may be lengthy wait times at the Guam International Airport due to arrival screenings.

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Those waiting for arriving travelers should anticipate wait times before travelers are allowed to exit the airport.

Families of arriving passengers should also be aware that certain travelers will be subject to quarantine.

GovGuam urgers older adults and people with serious chronic medical conditions to take precautionary measures since they are most at risk.

The island's manamko' and those with medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and lung disease are most at risk for COVID-19.

If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.

Stock up on supplies.

Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.

When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.

Avoid crowds as much as possible.

Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.

During a COVID-19 outbreak, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.

Coronavirus testing

Testing for COVID-19 is only available for people who meet the testing criteria.

If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, please call your health care provider.

If a patient does not have a regular health care provider, they can call any of the Community Health Centers or the Public Health hotline numbers listed below to report symptoms and obtain guidance from clinicians.

(671) 480-7859

(671) 480-6760/3

(671) 480-7883

These numbers are operational daily, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and are limited to medical-related inquiries only.

Social distancing

In an effort to prevent local transmission of COVID-19, children and adults are encouraged to practice social distancing.

Events of more than 50 people are prohibited and everyone should take steps to put distance between themselves and others.

Social distancing includes avoiding high fives, shaking hands, hugs, or close contact with others. Community spread is defined as cases that cannot be traced back to a traveler or to those who came in contact with a person who has coronavirus.

Even if you are young or otherwise healthy, you are at risk, and your activities may increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Work from home whenever possible.

If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as health care services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule and your employers should follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance to protect your health at work.

Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 50 people.

Avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants and food courts. Use drive-through pick up or delivery options.

Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.

Do not visit nursing homes, retirement homes, or long-term care facilities.

Practice good hygiene.

Wash your hands especially after touching any frequently used item or surface

Avoid touching your face

Sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow

Disinfect frequently used items and services as much as possible

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