Falkland Islands Government
COVID-19: Information and Guidance
The Falkland Islands continues to have no confirmed COVID-19 tests. 124 samples have been taken to date, and results received so far for 86 of these from the UK. They are all negative for COVID-19.
Samples will continue to be taken and sent to the UK on the regular Airbridge flights.
Members of the public will be aware that we have had a young child as an inpatient in the hospital on a ventilator with Covid-19 type symptoms. We are pleased to report that we have now received test results back from the UK and she does not have Covid-19 which is welcome news.
King Edward Memorial Hospital is well positioned to provide care should there be COVID-19 cases requiring a serious level of care. Director of Health and Social Services David O’Neill said the 29-bed hospital has been reconfigured to handle potential cases, while also preserving space for other patients.
The King Edward Memorial Hospital is currently dealing with a critically ill child, who is suspected to have COVID-19. Until this is confirmed by test, this remains a matter of clinical judgment. As a result of this, the Falkland Islands Government is moving its response to the next stage, in accordance with our Infectious Disease Plan and other preparations.
The Falkland Islands Government has announced a new air travel advisory, and outlined the terms on which it may assist cruise ships seeking to repatriate passengers. The COVID-19 virus continues to spread rapidly around the world, and restrictions on air travel are being introduced by many countries.
The Government has made public the Falkland Islands Infectious Diseases Plan, which sets out how it will respond to a serious disease outbreak. The Government is preparing for the eventual arrival of the COVID-19 virus here, given its rapid spread globally.