Starting tomorrow (January 19), Jamaica’s public hospitals will be restricted to conducting emergency care services.

In a statement, the Health and Wellness Ministry says the change in operation comes as several of the island’s public hospitals face increased pressure, due to the growing number of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 cases.

There is also decreased staff coverage as many healthcare workers are out sick.

The Ministry notes that up to Sunday, there were some 682 persons in hospital isolation for COVID-19.

Of that number, 486 were positive and another 196 were suspected.

The Ministry adds that elective cases are being postponed and the public will be advised of the new dates for these procedures.

The Ministry continues to encourage all persons to get vaccinated. It is critical that all persons wear masks, wash hands frequently and exercise the six-feet physical distance rule. Members of the public are also to avoid gatherings and stay home if they are ill.