Nassau, BAHAMAS-Despite an uptick in coronavirus cases, some continue to ignore a nationwide curfew imposed to stop the spread of the deadly disease.
Twenty-three curfew violators appeared in court on Monday, March 30, bringing the total of people prosecuted so far to 106. Police on New Providence, Grand Bahama and Abaco have arrested people for ignoring the curfew.
As of today, the country has 14 known cases of coronavirus. However, health officials expect the number of cases to surge.
The curfew that took effect on March 20 and ends on April 8 bans large gatherings. Its aim is to contain the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus that has killed more than 30,000 people worldwide.
Yet, people continue to jeopardise their health and that of others by refusing to stay home.
Some of the violators left home to visit friends, get money or give people rides. They were fined up to $500, while others were warned.
Offenders face a maximum of 18 months in prison or a $10,000 fine.
STREETS STILL BUSY DESPITE CURFEW
While an emergency order has closed numerous businesses and restricts travel to shopping for basic necessities, banking, exercise within your neighborhood, and emergencies, the streets remain busy.
Prime Minister Hubert Minnis has proposed a shopping scheduled based on the first letter of surnames to reduce large crowds at grocery stores.
The details of the shopping schedule will be released this week.
Minnis also recommended a designated shopper for each family and shopping online.
Operating hours for banks and pharmacies will be shortened to 9am to 1pm.
Street vendors, with the exception of newspaper vendors, have been banned.
ADVICE TO STAY WELL
The Center for Disease Control says the best way to avoid exposure to the coranavirus is through social distancing. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person and between people who are within less than six feet of one another.
Health officials recommend that people stay at home, frequently wash their hands with soap and water, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. People who feel sick should stay at home and call their doctors.