The Ministry of Health was unable to issue its weekly Covid-19 update tonight because of a technical glitch.

A spokeswoman said that the department’s epidemiology and surveillance unit database was offline owing to technical difficulties.

The spokeswoman added: “Therefore, Covid statistics are not able to be provided today. An update will be provided once the situation is resolved, which we anticipate in the coming days.”

The health department produces weekly figures on the number of Covid tests carried out in the previous seven days, the number of positive results returned and details of any recoveries, hospitalisations and deaths.

Last week another 343 new positive Covid-19 cases were reported. As of seven days ago there were 389 active cases, of which 380 were under public health monitoring and nine were in hospital. One person was in ICU.

Despite the lack of up-to-date figures, Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, urged people to get vaccinated.

She reminded that current stocks expire at the end of this month, and fresh supplies will not be available until the autumn.

Ms Wilson said: “Now is the time to get the coronavirus vaccine or get boosted.

“Time is running out. There will be no vaccines in July and August, and those getting their first Covid-19 vaccination now will have to wait until autumn for their second vaccination.

“Vaccination is recognised globally as one of the essential measures individuals can take to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community.

“All Bermuda residents play a critical role in helping reduce the spread and impact of the coronavirus.

“While not mandatory, the Ministry of Health strongly urges all individuals to get the coronavirus vaccination. If you are vaccinated and test positive, you are less likely to experience severe illness, less likely to require hospitalisation and die.”

Although the Government wound down its mass vaccination programme last month, doses of the drug are still available through private clinics.

They are: Somerset Pharmacy; Wee-Care Paediatrics; Edgewood Pediatric Services; Omni Medical; Northshore Medical; Somers Medical Services; Bermuda Healthcare Services; Bermuda Diabetes Association; King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.