The spike continues with a record 263 new Covid-19 cases recorded in the past 24-hours from 3,047 health authorities said, making the positivity rate 8.6%. This is the second record number in as many days, after 258 cases were reported on Friday.

There were also 192 recoveries and 2 new deaths reported. Health authorities advised that during the last 24 hours two men aged 76 and 57 passed away at Mater Dei Hospital, both while being positive with Covid-19.

As of tomorrow, new legislation allows restaurants snack bars and kiosks to stay open until midnight and reopen at 5am. Until the 31st of Mach snack bars and kiosks cannot, provide sell or offer alcoholic beverages to customers. Bars and clubs are to remain closed until 6am on the 31st of March.

There are now 2,720 active cases in Malta and Gozo. The number of swabs taken over this period was 3,047 – rapid tests are now being included in the daily total.

77,967 vaccine doses had been administered till yesterday – Saturday. Health authorities said that of these 26,781 were second doses.

The total number of cases are now up to 22,482. There have been 19,447 recoveries and 315 deaths,

698,239 swab tests have been taken since the start of the pandemic in Malta.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has advised that it will be reporting figures on a weekly basis – every Thursday. As of week 7, updated on 25th February, it shows that the number of cases recorded for Malta is at 20,892 and the number of deaths showing is 304. The 14-day cumulative number of Covid-19 cases per 100,000 is now 404.03. Malta is currently in 7th position in the EU/EEA. Czechia is at the top with 1120.03.

The ECDC said that the above data are collected between Monday and Wednesday for the proceeding week.

Public Health Authorities said that anyone who needs to take a test should call 111 to set an appointment, even if they do not have any symptoms. It is to be noted that due to the large volume of calls, it can take some time to get through.

All swabbing centres are open every day, including the one in Gozo, however appointments must be made on the above number.

The Ministry of Health, while offering its condolences to the relatives of the deceased, called on the public to continue to follow the preventive measures so that we can protect the most vulnerable in our society – This includes wearing of masks, social distancing and hand hygiene.

Permalink: Spike continues, record 263 new Covid-19 cases in last 24 hours