The Government of Bermuda is reminding that under the Public Health Act 1949 (Section 88) a Closure Notice has been issued and is in immediate effect.
The Closure Notice is in an effort to reduce possible community spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
Under the Notice, the Minister of Health, the Hon. Kim Wilson JP, MP, has Ordered the following eatablishments closed effective March 21, 2020.
For public clarity, the establisments are as follows:
- Schools;
- Swimming pools in hotels, Airbnb and guest houses;
- Beauty salons, spas and barbers;
- Church services (except funerals);
- Organised sports club activities with more than 50 people; and
- Concerts with more than 50 people.
Failure to adhere to the Closure Notice will result in penalties as outlined in Section 186 of the Public Health Act 1949 which states:
- $1,000 fine first offence; second and subsequent offence will result in conviction of three (3) months imprisonment or a $5,000 fine or both. And where the offense is a continuing offense, in addition to the above punishment of $500 fine per day.
The Order is attached for reference.
The public is reminded that quarantine measures are now enforceable under the Public Health regulations 2020.
The measure of self-quarantine is an important and significant step to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Enforceable penalties include a fine of up to $6,000 for a first offense and for a second offence up to $10,000 or imprisonment for three months. It is vital that all persons under self-quarantine follow the self-quarantine guidelines. Visit the link to review the guidelines.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of National Security have issued updated Social Distancing and Closure Schedule guidelines. Please review the attached for reference.