There have been 21 COVID-19 deaths and four influenza deaths for 2024 so far.

These are the statistics released by the Health Ministry in an update on respiratory illnesses in the country.

Regarding COVID-19, the Ministry reminds that there has been confirmation of local transmission of the JN.1 sub-variant, and efforts are ongoing to pursue vaccines.

12 patients are hospitalized with COVID-19 at the San Fernando General Hospital and the Couva Hospital & Multi-Training Facility.

On influenza, the Ministry says vaccines are available free of charge at health centres.

It assures that there has not been any notable increase in severe respiratory illnesses within the public health system, but urges caution due to ongoing poor air quality caused by Saharan dust.