Another coronavirus-related death has been announced by health officials yesterday, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities from the Covid-19 pandemic to 135.

But the island’s active cases have dropped by more than 50 in the past week, bringing the total known cases to 355.

The drop reverses a steady rise in active cases of coronavirus over recent weeks, with 409 active cases reported on May 4 – when there were also three deaths announced.

A week ago, seven people were being treated in hospital, with none in intensive care. That figure remains unchanged.

The numbers come after 303 people were found positive for the virus in the 8,805 tests conducted from last Tuesday through Monday – yielding a test positivity of 3.4 per cent.

Of the new cases, 34 came from overseas, 109 were locally transmitted and 160 are being investigated. There have been 355 recoveries in the last week.

Walter Roban, the acting health minister, offered condolences to the loved ones of the latest person lost.

He said while the island was “in a much better place” after two years under a pandemic, “people are still getting sick from the coronavirus and the unvaccinated have the highest risk of hospitalisations and death”.

Vaccination numbers have inched up, with 74.4 per cent of the population having received both doses.

Mr Roban said getting vaccinated remained “our best protection” and called on the public to protect the most vulnerable.

“Take extra precautions when visiting older relatives, when attending events like weddings, funerals, parties or any large social gathering,” he said.

“Take precautions when you are around people outside of your bubble. Stay home if you feel unwell, even if you test negative.”

He said the jab remained available by appointment only through the Hamilton Health Centre on Victoria Street.

The public can call 332-8906 for assistance in scheduling, or book online at the Government’s website.

Vaccines and boosters are also being administered next Tuesday at the Somerset Pharmacy between 10am and 3.30pm.

Mr Roban said only “a few doses” were in stock and no walk-ins were being accepted.

Appointments can be booked through clinservice@somersetpharmacybda.com or by calling 234-2484.

He reminded the public that paediatric vaccines would finish at the end of this month.

Children can be registered online here. Parents should then register their interest through their paediatrician.

Those without a paediatrician should call Hamilton Health Centre on 332-8906 for help. Questions can be e-mailed to vaccine@gov.bm or by calling 444-2498, option 2.

Mr Roban said some were experiencing “lingering coronavirus symptoms”.

“If you test positive from an antigen test, it indicates you are still infectious, so you must continue to isolate until you test negative. This may take longer than you expect.”

He added: “Everyone must be responsible and take action to stay safe. Avoid closed spaces, crowded places and close contact settings.

“Continue to follow public health guidance, wear a mask, practise good hand hygiene, ensure proper ventilation indoors and maintain physical distance.”