It is an imported case and the patient has been isolated to prevent the spread of the disease.

The Minister said the female patient arrived in Grenada from the United Kingdom on March 16 and became symptomatic on March 17 and was subsequently tested.

She is exhibiting mild symptoms, "so we are encouraged, but we are not complacent."

The Health Minister has assured that Grenada’s capable medical team has been actively following up and engaging in contact tracing.

Moves are already taking place to isolate and monitor "several individuals" who were in close contact with her. "This will continue for the next 14 days at minimum."

The Health Ministry has reported the COVID-19 confirmation to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).

"As the state of Grenada continues to aggressively monitor its ports and implement additional stringent measures to further protect our nation, the general public is urged, the general public is urged to follow the safety advice and guidance of the Ministry of Health. Practice proper hygiene and maintain social distancing of at least six feet.

"The public is also advised to report or inform the Ministry of Health or nearest health facility of any possible or suspected persons displaying acute respiratory symptoms at this time."

With Grenada now at Stage 1 in its response to COVID-19 locally, Steele told the nation that this imported case "brings us to a new phase, a phase of making sure that this deadly disease does not spread within our shores."