Restrictions to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spread were in place for two Bermuda Hospitals Board units and eight group homes across the island, the government quango said yesterday.

A spokeswoman added that increased infection control practices were in place and even visitors who felt well were asked to wear masks when they attended to see patients.

The Ministry of Health relayed the latest guidance this week from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommended that everyone stayed up to date with Covid-19 vaccinations.

It said then: “As the summer season approaches with increased travel and gatherings, the Ministry of Health’s epidemiology and surveillance unit wants to remind residents to be mindful of the potential risks associated with Covid-19, during this time of increased Covid-19 transmission in our community.”

A spokeswoman for the hospitals board said on Monday evening: “As has already been shared by the Government, Bermuda continues to see an increased number of Covid-19 infections and BHB remains on heightened alert.

“While Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted for four units across BHB, we are continuing to see patient and staff cases.

“Restrictions remain in place for two units and eight community group homes, including no visiting.

“Outside of these locations, BHB has increased infection control practices in place, including masking for all patient encounters. This is to protect staff and patients in close contact with each other.”

She added: “We also continue to encourage people who feel unwell to postpone their visit.

“Even those who feel well are asked to wear a mask when in the room with patients in hospital, as not everyone has symptoms and they may not know they are putting their loved one at risk.

“Seniors and people who may have other conditions are more at risk from Covid-19 and we ask for the community’s help to ensure they are protected.”

A government spokeswoman said yesterday: “We continue to see an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases.”

She said the latest available data was up to the week that ended June 8, when there had been six Covid-related deaths and 303 reported cases from the start of 2024.

The spokeswoman added yesterday: “Please note that most positive Covid-19 cases are not directly reported to the Ministry of Health due to the increased use of self-testing.”

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, added: “The Ministry of Health's epidemiology and surveillance unit has observed a rise in Covid-19 cases in environments where people live, meet or gather closely for extended periods.

“During the summer, numerous events and settings involve increased shared spaces and close contacts, heightening the risk of disease transmission.

“We encourage everyone to pay special attention to health and safety protocols in these situations.”

The health ministry said earlier that as the Covid-19 virus continued to change, updates to the vaccine could be expected in the future.