Bermuda has recorded another Covid-19 death, but the number of people admitted to hospital has fallen sharply.

The Ministry of Health said last night that it had identified 266 new Covid-19 cases in the past week. There were also 338 recoveries, causing the number of active cases to fall to 307.

Of those active cases, 18 are in hospital and none are in intensive care. In total, 142 people have now died from Covid.

Last Wednesday, the health ministry said there were 28 people in hospital with Covid-19, but the spokeswoman pointed out that the number only covered people on acute care and critical care wards.

Including long-term care patients in King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute, that figure was 56 on Friday.

Jason Hayward, the Acting Minister of Health, shared his condolences to the family and friends of the dead person and called for continued caution.

“Most people are ready to move past the pandemic, but Covid-19 is still widespread in our community, and around the world,” Mr Hayward said.

“The virus continues to evolve, and we see rapid transmission on the island.

“The main symptoms are a sore throat, body aches and headaches, and also blocked or runny nose, cough, hoarse voice, sneezing, fatigue and muscle aches. Mild symptoms are still symptoms to be concerned about.

“Stay home if you have any symptoms. It often takes a few days to test positive after you get symptoms.”

Mr Hayward reiterated that Covid-19 remains a public health emergency of international concern and urged the public to wear a face mask, practise good hand hygiene and maintain physical distance to avoid infection.

“Importantly, ensure there is proper ventilation when you are indoors,” he added. “Fresh air ventilation is essential for any building or internal space and protects all of us from infections such as Covid-19.

“We should all increase fresh air ventilation wherever possible when indoors. Take an at-home antigen test before going to Cup Match or any event or gathering.”