Madeira 28th and 29th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 107 new Covid-19 cases and 37 recoveries from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. The majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Monday, there were 47 new Covid-19 cases (from 6 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 2 passengers who had arrived from Luxembourg, 1 passenger who had arrived from the Czech Republic, 1 passenger who had arrived
from France, 1 passenger who had arrived from Poland, 1 passenger who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 35 cases of local transmission) and 23 recoveries. All new cases of local transmission were linked to
previously identified cases or contacts. The number of patients in hospital decreased to 27, 4 of whom were in intensive care.
And on Tuesday, there were 60 new Covid-19 cases (from 3 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from France, 1 passenger who had arrived from Spain, 6 passengers who had arrived from the Lisbon
and Tagus Valley Region and 49 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. Most cases had already been linked to previously identified cases or contacts. Epidemiological investigations were still taking place. The number of
patients in hospital increased to 35, 4 of whom are in intensive care.
There are currently 563 active cases, of which 163 were imported while the other 400 cases were a result of local transmission. So far, there have been 1,620 cases, 1,045 recoveries and 12 deaths.
There are currently 55 patients in isolation in a dedicated hotel, 473 patients in isolation in their own accommodation and 35 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 4 of whom are in the Covid-19
Intensive Care Unit.
There are currently 120 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, which are all linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls made to the SRS24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20)
and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Tuesday, there had been 3,080 suspected cases.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 140,223 samples had been collected until Tuesday (at 18h00). Overall, 228,399 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
At the moment, 26,653 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 2,185 people, who had contact with positive cases, being monitored by the
health authorities of several Madeira municipalities and in Porto Santo.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/28/47-novos-casos-de-covid-19-mais-116-casos-suspeitos/
Rules for New Year firework display
Eduardo Jesus, the Madeira Tourism Secretary, asked people and not to leave
their homes to watch the New Year firework display in Funchal. The firework display can be watched on RTP-Madeira (TV channel) and on naminhaterra.com (online TV channel).
However, there are still ways for people to watch the firework display outside their homes. The Regional Government will set up specific areas where people can watch it. Designated areas, known as “bolsas” will be set up and
clearly marked and separated, where up to 5 people (preferably from the same family) can stand. Social distancing and the use of face masks will be mandatory. There will be 2,060 designated areas, where as many as 10,300 people will be
allowed to watch the firework display.
The designated areas (“bolsas”) will be located in the following places:
– Praça CR7
– Avenida Sá Carneiro
– Avenida do Mar
– Miradouro da Nazaré (Nazaré Viewpoint) & miradouro das Neves (Das Neves viewpoint) – access will be controlled and limited to 380 people
– Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos (Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint) – up to 515 people
On the 31st of December, bars and restaurants can be open until 1am on the 1st of January.
Three cruise ships will be on the bay of Funchal, where 1,400 passengers will watch the firework display without disembarking.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113741/Governo_pede_para_os_madeirenses_verem_o_fogo_em_casa
More details on the new Covid-19 variant detected in Madeira
It was revealed that 18 Covid-19 patients were infected with the new variant that had been initially detected in the UK. One of the patients had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region while the remaining 17 had arrived from the
UK. Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Madeira Regional Government, assured that all these passengers had been taken into isolation after their arrival and had complied with the prophylactic isolation requirement. The Madeira
health authorities had sent 21 samples for analysis at Instituto Ricardo Jorge. More samples are due to be sent to the same institution.
Vaccine arrival
Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Madeira Regional Government, said he was not sure if the vaccines will arrive today or tomorrow. The vaccines had been due to arrive on Monday. Nevertheless, he assured that everything is ready
so that vaccines can be defrosted in just 6 hours and administered. He also informed that a representative from Pfizer is in Madeira to provide training on the vaccine and its administering.
British couple refused entry into Madeira
On Sunday, a British couple who had arrived in Madeira via Bucharest, refused to be tested for Covid-19 and to go into isolation. As a result, they were refused entry into the Region and were deported.
https://observador.pt/2020/12/28/covid-19-madeira-nao-sabe-ainda-quando-ira-receber-vacinas/
Madeira Report 2rd– 27th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 224 new Covid-19 cases, 77 recoveries and 2 deaths from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. The majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Wednesday, there were 54 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from Switzerland, 1 passenger who had arrived from Northern Portugal and 50 cases of local transmission), 10
recoveries and 1 death. A 64 year old male, who was infected with Covid-19, died at his home after having had a cardiac arrest. He became Madeira’s 11th fatality with Covid-19.
All new cases of local transmission were linked to previously
identified cases or contacts. Three of the new cases were from 3 healthcare professionals, 1 of whom was linked to a positive case from outside a professional context. The number of patients in hospital increased to 22, 1 of whom was in
intensive care.
On Thursday, there were 38 new Covid-19 cases (from 8 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from Angola, 1 passenger who had arrived from the Czech Republic, 1 passenger who had arrived from Switzerland, 1
passenger who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 26 cases of local transmission) and 10 recoveries.
All cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. The number of patients in hospital increased to 25, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
On Friday, there were 48 new Covid-19 cases (from 3 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 3 passengers who had arrived from Spain, 5 passengers who had arrived from Northern Portugal, 1 passenger who had arrived from the Lisbon and
Tagus Valley Region and 36 cases of local transmission) and 26 recoveries.
All cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. The number of patients in hospital increased once again. There were was 29 hospitalised patients, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
On Saturday, there were 35 new Covid-19 cases (from 3 passengers who had arrived from France, 3 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 2 passengers who had arrived from Germany, 1 passenger who had arrived from Switzerland, 3
passengers who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 23 cases of local transmission), 17 recoveries and 1 death. A 91 year old female patient, who had been in hospital since the 21st of December, became Madeira’s 12th
fatality from Covid-19.
All new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. The number of patients in hospital decreased to 27, 2 of whom were in intensive care.
And on Sunday, there were 49 new Covid-19 cases (from 7 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 2 passengers who had arrived from the Czech Republic, 4 passengers who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region, 1 passenger who
had arrived from Northern Portugal and 35 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries.
Most cases had already been linked to previously identified cases or contacts. Epidemiological investigations were still taking place. As for the new cases, 15 were identified (13 residents and 2 members of staff) after contact tracing
in a private long-term healthcare unit where a new case had been identified on Saturday. The number of patients in hospital increased to 30, 4 of whom are in intensive care.
There are currently 493 active cases, of which 145 were imported while the other 348 cases were a result of local transmission. So far, there have been 1,513 cases, 1,008 recoveries and 12 deaths.
There are currently 61 patients in isolation in a dedicated hotel, 402 patients in isolation in their own accommodation and 30 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 4 of whom are in the Covid-19 Intensive
Care Unit.
There are currently 244 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, which are all linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls made to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira
Regional Health Service). As of Sunday, there had been 2,973 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 138,212 samples had been collected until Sunday (at 19h00). Overall, 224,244 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
At the moment, 26,653 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 2,185 people, who had contact with positive cases, being monitored by the
health authorities of several Madeira municipalities and in Porto Santo.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 1,326 calls from Tuesday to Sunday. Overall, 24,243 calls have been made to this helpline.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/23/recorde-de-54-novos-casos-de-covid-19-na-madeira-em-24-horas/
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113415/Madeira_regista_11ª_morte_com_covid-19
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/25/48-novos-casos-positivos-de-covid-19-160-casos-suspeitos/
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/27/49-novos-casos-de-covid-19-244-suspeitos-14-recuperados/
Important information on 2nd Covid-19 test
Unidade de Emergência de Saúde Pública (UESP – Public Health Emergency Unit) informed that if passengers, who are on their 4th day after arrival in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, have not been contacted to book a 2nd Covid-19
(SARS-Cov-2) test, they can call the following numbers: 966 735 594 or 969 381 326. Tests can take place from 09h00 until 21h00.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/23/informacao-sobre-testes-covid-19-na-ram/
Proof of prophylactic isolation
The Regional Health Directorate informed that proof of prophylactic isolation can be requested though the following website:
http://apps.iasaude.pt/S-Alerta/COVID19/DIP/
This form can be used to justify absence from the workplace as a result of prophylactic isolation.
New Covid-19 variant detected in Madeira
On Sunday, it was confirmed the new Covid-19 variant, which had spread throughout the UK, was detected in passengers who had arrived from the UK. The Regional Health Directorate (Direção Regional de Saúde) had sent samples from Covid-19
patients for genomic sequencing at Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge.
Covid-19 vaccination in Madeira
The Autonomous Region of Madeira will receive 400,000 vaccine doses. Senior citizens, people with certain pathologies and healthcare professionals will be among the first to be vaccinated. This means 50,000 people are expected to be
vaccinated in the 1st phase, 50,000 people in the 2nd phase and 100,000 people in the 3rd phase.
The 1st phase is likely to start before the new year.
Although 9,750 Pfizer vaccine doses were originally scheduled to arrive in Madeira in the first week of January, they have arrived in the mainland earlier than expected and are likely to arrive in the Region today.
Military and security forces, under coordination by Comando Operacional da Madeira (Madeira Operational Command), led by Admiral João Dores Aresta, will be responsible for the delivery of the vaccine to the Region.
Today, SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) healthcare professionals will be provided training on administering the vaccine. Vaccination will be optional and free of charge. The vaccine must be administered twice.
From today, a Covid-19 vaccination helpline (800 210 263 – available from 09h00 to 20h00 – for administrative support) and email address (vacinacao@sesaram.pt – for queries and vaccination
bookings) are available.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113592/Vacinacao_arranca_na_Madeira_antes_do_fim_do_ano
SESARAM provided medical treatment and psychological assistance after Northern Madeira floods
Several residents were unable to leave their homes as a result of the floods that hit the Municipality of São Vicente. As a result, SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) covered the dialysis treatments of 4 citizens who had been affected by
the floods. The Fire Service helped some of these patients leave their homes and provided transport so they could receive treatment. SESARAM also made inquiries to assess the needs of other patients, particularly in regards to the
provision of medication.
A team of SESARAM psychologists was also deployed to provide psychological support to those who were affected by the floods. This team can be contacted by calling the São Vicente Health Centre (Centro de Saúde de São Vicente – 291 840
065).
Clean up after Christmas Day floods
Most roads in Ponta Delgada, apart from Lombinho (due to reopen today), have been reopened to traffic. However, drivers are asked to be cautious because there is still some damage and cleaning and repair work is still underway. Drivers
are advised to drive in affected roads only in case of extreme need.
Two days after the floods, the sunny weather in Ponta Delgada helped to speed up the removal of debris from roads and homes. Water supplies have been mostly restored. However, Miguel Freitas, President of the Parish (Freguesia) of Ponta
Delgada, said the most worrying situation is access to the higher areas of the parish, particularly the 3 Lombadas.
Cruise ships arriving in Madeira
In more cheerful news, the cruise ship Mein Schiff 3 will be sailing along the Funchal bay during the New Year celebrations. The ship is currently approaching Porto Santo and will stay in the Region until the first minutes of January.
In addition, the cruise ship MS Europa 2from Hapag Lloyd Cruise Lines, is scheduled to sail around Madeira after the New Year fireworks. None of the ships will be docking in Funchal.
Madeira Reports 19th – 22nd December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 142 new Covid-19 cases, 96 recoveries and 2 deaths from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. The majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Saturday, there were 43 new Covid-19 cases (from 11 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from France and 31 cases of local transmission) and 26 recoveries.
All new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. One of the new cases was from a member of staff of a care home. The number of patients in hospital increased to 19, 1 of whom was in intensive
care.
On Sunday, there were 31 new Covid-19 cases (from 10 passengers who had
arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from Italy, 4 passengers who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region, 1 passenger who had arrived from Central Portugal, 1 passenger who had arrived from Northern Portugal and
14 cases of local transmission), 19 recoveries and 1 death. A 97 year old female patient, who had several pre-existing conditions, became Madeira’s 9th fatality from Covid-19.
All cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. Among the new cases of local transmission, 1 was from a hospitalised patient and 1 was from a healthcare professional who had contact with an
infected person outside work. The number of patients in hospital decreased to 16, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
On Monday, there were 26 new Covid-19 cases (from 7 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 2 passengers who had arrived from Central Portugal and 17 cases of local transmission), 23 recoveries and 1 death. An 80 year old female
patient, who had several pre-existing conditions and who had been in hospital since the 11th of December, died from Covid-19.
All cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. Among the new cases of local transmission, 1 was from a SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) healthcare professional, 2 were residents from a private
care home where there had already been Covid-19 cases. The number of patients in hospital was 16, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
And on Tuesday, there were 42 new Covid cases (from 9 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 3 who had arrived from Venezuela, 2 who had arrived from Mexico, 1 who had arrived from the Netherlands, 1 who had arrived from Angola, 1 who
had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 25 cases of local transmission and 28 recoveries. So far, most cases of local transmission have been linked to previously identified cases or contacts. One of the new cases of
local transmission was from a SESARAM healthcare professional who had contact with an infected person outside work. The number of patients in hospital increased to 23, 1 of whom is intensive care.
There are currently 348 active cases, of which 110 were imported while the other 238 cases were a result of local transmission. So far, there have been 1,289 cases, 931 recoveries and 10 deaths.
There are currently 36 patients in isolation in a dedicated hotel, 289 patients in isolation in their own accommodation and 23 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 1 of whom is in the Covid-19
Intensive Care Unit.
There are currently 145 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, which are all linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls made to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM
(Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Tuesday, there had been 2,749 suspected
cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 130,661 samples had been collected until Tuesday (at 20h00). Overall, 213,157 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
At the moment, 22,097 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. The number of visitors under monitoring more than doubled in the last week, which reflects the
increase in the number of passengers who have been arriving in the Madeira archipelago. There are also 1,940 people, who had contact with positive cases, being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira municipalities and in
Porto Santo.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) has so far received 22,917 calls.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/19/43-novos-casos-de-covid-19-mais-63-casos-suspeitos/
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/20/morreu-mais-uma-doente-com-covid-19-na-madeira-ja-sao-nove/
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/21/madeira-soma-10-mortos-com-covid-19-hoje-ha-26-novos-casos/
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/22/42-novos-casos-de-covid-19-mais-145-casos-suspeitos/
Mandatory testing for UK arrivals
The Madeira Regional Government informed that all travellers arriving in the Region from the UK (only Portuguese citizens or foreign nationals legally resident and their relatives can travel to Portugal) who do not have evidence of a
negative Covid-19 test must be tested on arrival. While awaiting for the test results, they must also remain in prophylactic isolation in their own accommodation or in a hotel requisitioned by the Regional Government. They must also be
tested for a second time, between the 5th and 7th day after the 1st test had been carried out, and must remain in prophylactic isolation in their own home or accommodation.
President of Madeira Regional Government criticised treatment of BA passengers
Miguel Albuquerque said it was very unpleasant that passengers on a British Airways flight that had landed in Funchal had been forced by SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras – Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service) to
stay aboard the aircraft for about 3 hours, despite the fact an airport room had been arranged where passengers would have been more comfortable while waiting for the outcome of their situation. The flight had been carrying more than 40
passengers who are not Madeira residents. He made it clear this situation is not compatible with Madeira’s welcoming tradition.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/21/caso-do-aviao-britanico-tudo-isto-foi-muito-desagradavel/
Genetic sequencing to be carried out
The Madeira Regional Government will carry out genetic sequencing to check if a more aggressive variant of Covid-19, which was first spotted in the UK, is present in Madeira. The research will be carried out in cooperation with
Instituto Ricardo Jorge.
9,750 Covid-19 vaccine doses to arrive in the first week of January
Miguel Albuquerque informed that the 9,750 doses of the new Covid-19 vaccine are due to arrive in the Region in the first week of January. The fridges that will be used to store the vaccine arrived in the Region last week and are ready
to be used. Albuquerque assured that Madeira and Porto Santo have all the necessary conditions for the vaccine storage, logistics and administration. He added that the regional team in charge of the vaccine rollout have been in regular
contact with the national vaccine task force.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/21/9750-vacinas-contra-a-covid-19-deverao-chegar-em-janeiro/
New Year fireworks display to go ahead
Miguel Albuquerque insisted the planned New Year fireworks display will ahead. Viewpoints, squares and Avenida do Mar will be monitored to ensure compliance with social distancing. Bars, restaurants and other similar places must close
at 1am on the 1st of January and customers should return home while avoiding gatherings. He added that each person must behave responsibly and that people either comply with the rules, ensuring a controlled situation in January or do
not comply with the rules and the consequences will not be good.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/21/fogo-de-fim-de-ano-esta-programado-e-vai-ser-dado/
Appeal for compliance with Covid-19 rules
Miguel Albuquerque appealed for every person to comply with social distancing rules, hand hygiene, the use of face masks, otherwise there will be a big price to pay. He advised families to avoid meals with people from other households,
to avoid unnecessary travel and to be very careful when meeting with older relatives. He reminded that this is currently the most dangerous period and that more must not be demanded from the healthcare teams.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/21/albuquerque-nao-ha-ate-agora-transmissao-comunitaria/
Non-compliance with mandatory isolation
There have been reports of students who had arrived in Madeira from outside the Region and who had not complied with mandatory isolation. For instance, some students were spotted meeting relatives and friends even before the results of
the first Covid-19 had been known. Reacting to this, Miguel Albuquerque said it was an absolutely irresponsible situation and that the police must take action whenever such situations are known.
Big supermarkets and shopping centres threatened with closure
Miguel Albuquerque said bars and restaurants are now complying with the Covid-19 rules after a period of time
when this was not happening. On the other hand, he showed his
frustration with the situation in big supermarkets and shopping centres. He had visited one and had witnessed large numbers of customers doing Christmas shopping while not complying with temperature measuring, social distancing and
other rules. He warned there could be a big price to pay as far as public health is concerned. He added that Madeira can not afford to jeopardise everything now that the vaccine is due to arrive. He also issued a final warning to big
supermarkets and shopping centres, threatening to close them if they do not comply with maximum capacity limits and other Covid-19 rules. To aid in monitoring capacity limits, Madeira Shopping security guards have been provided an app
that allows them to check how many people are inside the premises.
Madeira testing capacity
Miguel Albuquerque stressed that Madeira’s testing capacity has been constantly improved and adjusted as necessary. At the moment, the SESARAM laboratory is capable of processing over 2,000 tests per day. In contrast, at the start of
the pandemic it was only capable of processing 50 tests per day. He praised the laboratory for its performance. He also revealed that as of Sunday, 46,513 Covid-19 tests had been carried out in the Portuguese mainland on passengers that
had been due to travel to Madeira. As a result, 252 tests came back positive, which meant Madeira managed to prevent the arrival of dozens of infected travellers. Furthermore, the mandatory second Covid-19 test, carried out between the
5th and 7th day after the arrival of passenger in Madeira, has enabled the detection of 11 Covid-19 cases. As of Monday, 6,011 second Covid-19 tests had been booked since the 2nd of December.
Number of Covid-19 beds can be doubled within 24h
Miguel Albuquerque informed that the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça has 65 beds, 20 of which are currently being used. The Covid-19 unit for suspected cases has 25 beds, 10 of which are currently being used. He assured
that if necessary, the number of beds in both units can be doubled within 24 hours. He also said that a new Covid-19 unit, with 12 negative pressure rooms, will be set up below the Accident & Emergency department in the first fortnight
of January 2021.
Additional measures introduced after outbreaks in care homes and healthcare providers
In response to Covid-19 outbreaks in care homes and healthcare providers, Miguel Albuquerque said additional measures were taken. These include the ban on long visits, more testing of professionals, residents and visitors and the
restriction on professionals to move between different health centres and care homes.
Madeira Report 16th – 18th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 59 new Covid-19 cases, 68 recoveries and 2 deaths from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. Once again, the vast majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Wednesday, there were 24 new Covid-19 cases (from 6 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 2 passengers who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 16 cases of local transmission), 17 recoveries and 1 death. An 87
year old female patient became Madeira’s 7th fatality from Covid-19. She had several pre-existing conditions and been hospitalised in the Covid-19 unit since December 3rd.
All new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases or contacts. Two of the new
cases were from hospitalised patients who had been tested for Covid-19 while in hospital and 2 were from social care (1 beneficiary and 1 member of staff). There were 14 patients in hospital, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
On Thursday, there were 18 new Covid-19 cases (from 4 passengers who had arrived from the UK, 1 passenger who had arrived from Poland and 13 cases of local transmission) and 32 recoveries. All cases of local transmission were linked to
previously identified cases or contacts. Among the new cases of local transmission, 4 were from hospitalised patients and 1 was from a healthcare professional at SESARAM (Madeira Health Service). The number of patients in hospital
increased to 18, 1 of whom was in intensive care.
And on Friday, there were 17 new Covid-19 cases (from 1 passenger who had arrived from Italy and 16 cases of local transmission), 19 recoveries and 1 death. A 92 year old female patient, who had several pre-existing conditions, died in
hospital. Her death means Madeira has 8 deaths from Covid-19.
As of Friday, there have been 1,147 cases, 835 recoveries and 8 deaths.
The following data is from Thursday, as no updated figures were provided on Friday:
On Thursday, there were 307 active cases, of which 72 were imported while the other 235 cases were a result of local transmission. Also, 44 cases were from non-residents while 263 were from Madeira residents.
On Thursday, there were 35 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 253 patients in isolation at their own accommodation and 18 patients in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 1 of whom was in the Covid-19 Intensive
Care Unit.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 122,036 samples had been collected until Thursday (at 18h30). Overall, 201,117 samples had been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
Also on Thursday, 12,103 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There were also 1,986 people, who had contact with positive cases, being monitored by the
health authorities of several Madeira municipalities and in Porto Santo.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) had received 446 calls from Tuesday to Thursday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline was 21,413.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/17/mais-18-casos-de-covid-19-129-novos-casos-suspeitos/
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113073/Faleceu_mais_um_doente_covid_na_Madeira
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113069/Madeira_com_mais_17_novos_casos_e_apenas_um_importado
New Covid-19 prevention measures to be announced on Monday
Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Madeira Regional Government, will hold a press conference on Monday at 17h00. He will comment on the outcome of the measures that had been previously implemented and will also announce new
measures that will be applicable during the Christmas and New Year period.
Students, teachers and school staff tribute to healthcare professionals
On Thursday morning, students,
teachers and staff from Escola Dr. Horácio Bento de Gouveia paid tribute to the SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) professionals. The Madeira Education, Science and Technology Secretary was in attendance. The school courtyard is in front
of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça and the group launched balloons and sang Christmas songs. In response, the healthcare professionals thanked the group for their gesture. A video of the tribute can be watched on the following website:
Motorcycle group made donation to food bank
Bikers from a motorcycle group (Guardiões da Madeira Moto Clube) visited the Banco Alimentar da Madeira warehouse, where they delivered a donation of food. Carlos Ventura, the founder of this motorcycle group, said the current social
and economic crisis is a source of great concern to its bikers and hope this donation will help the Region in the fight against hunger. Fátima Aveiro, the director of Banco Alimentar da Madeira, hosted the group and expressed her
gratitude for the donation.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/113065/Motards_solidarios_com_o_Banco_Alimentar_da_Madeira
Tourism in Madeira in better performance than the rest of the country
Eduardo Jesus, the Madeira Tourism Secretary, said Madeira has
been having more success than other Portuguese tourists destinations. He said Madeira has been losing fewer tourists than other destinations in Portugal (Madeira had a reduction of 63% while Lisbon Airport had a reduction of 80%).
Eduardo Jesus said the resilience of Madeira’s businesspeople had helped to provide trust in Madeira as a safe destination. He added that the Regional Government has been doing everything possible for tourism to recover and to provide
support to the tourism sector.
Regional Government to donate 10 patrol cars to the PSP
Pedro Calado, the Vice-President of the Madeira Regional Government, will preside over the handover ceremony of 10 patrol cars to the PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública – Public Safety Police). The donation is based on a collaboration
protocol signed between the Autonomous Region of Madeira, through the Vice-Presidency of the Madeira Regional Government and Parliamentary Affairs (Assuntos Parlamentares), and the PSP. As a result of this protocol, 1 all-terrain search
and weather vehicle, 4 900cc motorbikes, 6 125cc motorbikes, search and rescue and mountain rescue equipment (individual and collective), 2 emergency lighting systems, 1 laser radar and 2 sound level meters have been provided to the
PSP.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/112970/Governo_Regional_vai_entregar_10_carros_patrulha_a_PSP
Madeira Situation Report 16th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 63 new Covid-19 cases, 56 recoveries and 1 death from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. Once again, the vast majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Wednesday, there were 29 new Covid-19 cases and 20 recoveries. All new cases were cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases. Five of the new cases were from children, aged 8-15, who
attend schools in the municipalities of Funchal, Machico and Santa Cruz; 1 new case was from a healthcare professional from SESARAM (Madeira Health Service); 5 new cases were from social care professionals (1 who works in the
Municipality of Santa Cruz, 1 who works in the Municipality of Funchal and 3 who work at an institution in the Municipality of Funchal); and 2 of the new cases were from professionals working for the Municipality of Funchal. The number
of patients in hospital decreased to 13 and 4 of whom were in intensive care.
On Thursday, there were 15 new Covid-19 cases (from 7 passengers who had arrived from the UK and 8 cases of local transmission), 22 recoveries and 1 death.
An 80 year old female patient, who had several pre-existing conditions and had been in the Covid-19 unit of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça since the 6th of December, became Madeira’s 3rd fatality from Covid-19. The office of Pedro Ramos
(Madeira Health and Civil Protection Secretary) expressed its deepest condolences to her grieving family.
Most new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases. One of the new cases was from an adult who works at an educational institution in Funchal. Another new case was from a social care professional working in
the Municipality of Funchal. There were 13 patients in hospital and 4 of them were in intensive care.
And on Friday, there were 19 new Covid-19 cases (from 3 passengers who had arrived from the UK and 16 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. Most cases of local transmission had already been linked to
previously identified cases. Among the new cases of local transmission, 3 were from children, aged 4-10, who attend educational institutions in the municipalities of Machico and Santa Cruz; 1 was from an adult who works at another
educational institution in the Municipality of Machico; 2 were from 2 patients who were already hospitalised in SESARAM and 1 was from a healthcare professional who works in public and private healthcare providers. The number of
patients in hospital increased to 14, 4 of whom were in intensive care.
There are currently 265 active cases, of which 54 were imported while the other 211 cases were a result of local transmission. Also, 28 cases are from non-residents while 237 are from Madeira residents.
So far, there have been 997 cases, 729 recoveries and 3 deaths.
There are currently 16 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 235 patients in isolation at their own accommodation and 14 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 4 of whom are in the Covid-19
Intensive Care Unit.
At the moment, 8,347 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 1,868 people being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira
municipalities and in Porto Santo.
There are currently 194 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, of which 1 was identified through airport screening while the remaining 193 are linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls made
to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Friday, there had been 2,457 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 116,012 samples had been collected until Friday (at 18h30). Overall, 190,134 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 623 calls from Tuesday to Friday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline is 20,302.
Madeira recognised by IHF’s Beyond the Call of Duty for Covid-19
The International Hospital Federation has recognised Madeira for its integrated response to the Covid-19 pandemic. It praised the Regional Secretariat for Heath and Civil Protection for having adopted an approach that “showed that early
and decisive action is crucial to fight a pandemic”. Pedro Ramos, the Madeira Health and Civil Protection Secretary, said this award is an international recognition for all the work carried out to fight the Covid-19 pandemic in the
Region and is a source of pride for all healthcare and civil protection professionals who took part in this integrated response.
The Beyond Call of Duty for Covid-19 award was also awarded to several other Portuguese hospitals:
Day care centres ordered to close as a Covid-19 prevention measure
Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Madeira Regional Government, has ordered day care centres to close from Friday onwards in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Although he said the existence of Covid-19 cases in a hospital
setting means the virus reaches hospitals and care homes, he stressed the sanitary authorities are still in control of the transmission chains and testing is ongoing. He added that from today care home professionals will not be allowed
to work in different care homes. Care home visits will still be possible while taking all precautions. Miguel Albuquerque said an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases is to be expected and reinforced the need to control the
transmission chains.
Municipality of Ribeira Brava delivering 3,150 face masks to students
Yesterday, the Municipality of Ribeira Brava started the delivery of 3,150 face masks to students from educational institutions in the municipality. Each student from 1º Ciclo, 2º Ciclo, 3º Ciclo and Secondary School will receive 2 face
masks, made from textiles and by professionals from the Region. The aim of this measure is to make young people more aware of what needs to be done to fight Covid-19 in the Region, particularly in the Municipality of Ribeira Brava. This
includes the use of face masks, frequent hand washing and disinfection, social distancing and respiratory etiquette. The correct use of a face mask is crucial to prevent the spread of Covid-19. This is why the municipality decided to
deliver 2 face masks to each student, so that each mask can be used and replaced according to the instructions. Young people were also encouraged to be Public Health agents and to encourage their relatives to comply with all Covid-19
guidelines.
More firefighters and Covid-19 equipment for Porto Santo Fire Service
Pedro Ramos, the Madeira Health and Civil Protection Secretary, was in Porto Santo, where he took part in the
swear-in ceremony of 12 new Firefighters and in the delivery of new
equipment for the Porto Santo Fire Service. There are now 42 civil protection professionals. The Porto Santo Fire Service also received a BIO-BAG EBV – 30/40IN-CH capsule, a pioneering equipment that enables patients with infectious
diseases, namely Covid-19, to be safely transported. Pedro Ramos highlighted the role of the Porto Santo Fire Service and expressed the importance of reinforcing its operational capacity not only through the provision of more equipment
but also through professional recognition and training of its staff. He also explained that investment in civil protection has been a reality and stated that the Regional Government has invested more than €22M in the current Regional
Government term.
Fares discount on Madeira-Canary Islands flights
Binter has reduced fares on flights between Madeira and the Canary Islands. The discount will apply to flights booked until the 27th of December, for travel between the 11th of January and the 28th of February 2021. Fares will start at
€72,86 for flights to the Canary Islands on Wednesdays. These fares are valid per flight if a return flight is booked but the fare could be different, depending on the route. Checked luggage, seat selection and a high-quality in-flight
service are included in this discount campaign. Flights can be booked online (www.binter.pt), by phone (291 290 129) or through travel agencies.
Water supply disruptions
There will be water supply disruptions in the Municipality of Câmara de Lobs, to allow for scheduled work to be carried out in the water supply network in order to prevent water leaks. The disruption will affect the following areas:
17th December (09h00 to 13h00) – Parish of Câmara de Lobos (Ribeiro Leal, Lourencinha and Fajã) & Parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos (Covão, Panasqueira and Vargem)
17th December (11h00 to 15h00) – Parish of Câmara de Lobos (Fajã, Palmeira and Torre)
18th December (09h00 to 13h00) – Parish of Câmara de Lobos (Saraiva)
Madeira Report 12th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 63 new Covid-19 cases, 56 recoveries and 1 death from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. Once again, the vast majority of new cases were cases
of local transmission.
On Wednesday, there were 29 new Covid-19 cases and 20 recoveries. All new cases were cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases. Five of the
new cases were from children, aged 8-15, who attend schools in the municipalities of Funchal, Machico and Santa Cruz; 1 new case was from a healthcare professional from SESARAM (Madeira Health Service); 5 new cases were from social care
professionals (1 who works in the Municipality of Santa Cruz, 1 who works in the Municipality of Funchal and 3 who work at an institution in the Municipality of Funchal); and 2 of the new cases were from professionals working for the
Municipality of Funchal. The number of patients in hospital decreased to 13 and 4 of whom were in intensive care.
On Thursday, there were 15 new Covid-19 cases (from 7 passengers who had arrived from outside the UK and 8 cases of local transmission), 22 recoveries and 1 death.
An 80 year old female patient, who had several pre-existing conditions and had been in the Covid-19 unit of Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça since the 6th of December, became Madeira’s 3rd fatality from Covid-19. The office of Pedro Ramos
(Madeira Health and Civil Protection Secretary) expressed its deepest condolences to her grieving family. Most new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases. One of the new cases was from an adult who works
at an educational institution in Funchal. Another new case was from a social care professional working in the Municipality of Funchal. There were 13 patients in hospital and 4 of them were in intensive care.
And on Friday, there were 19 new Covid-19 cases (from 3 passengers who had arrived from the UK and 16 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. Most cases of local transmission
had already been linked to previously identified cases. Among the new cases of local transmission, 3 were from children, aged 4-10, who attend educational institutions in the municipalities of Machico and Santa Cruz; 1 was from an adult
who works at another educational institution in the Municipality of Machico; 2 were from 2 patients who were already hospitalised in SESARAM and 1 was from a healthcare professional who works in public and private healthcare providers.
The number of patients in hospital increased to 14, 4 of whom were in intensive care.
There are currently 265 active cases, of which 54 were imported while the other 211 cases were a result of local transmission. Also, 28 cases are from non-residents while 237 are from Madeira residents.
So far, there have been 934 cases, 729 recoveries and 3 deaths. There are currently 16 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 235 patients in isolation at their
own accommodation and 14 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 4 of whom are in the Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit. At the moment, 8,347 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities.
Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 1,868 people being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira municipalities and in Porto Santo.
There are currently 194 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, of which 1 was identified through airport screening while the remaining 193 are linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls made
to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Friday, there had been 2,457 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed. As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal
and Porto Santo airports, 116,012 samples had been collected until Friday (at 18h30). Overall, 190,134 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 623 calls from Tuesday to Friday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline is 20,302.
Remarks from the President of the Madeira Regional Government on the pandemic
On Wednesday, Miguel Albuquerque ruled out, once again, the creation of a sanitary cordon in Machico. He argued a sanitary cordon will only be imposed the situation gets “out of control” and there is community transmission. He also said
he had received classified information pointing to the increase of cases in Machico and reinforced the view that Madeira is currently facing one of the most complicated phases and a period of great risk. He appealed for the Covid-19
rules to be fully complied with and warned there will be rigorous inspections to check compliance with them on bars and restaurants. He specifically asked business owners to be very careful and to ensure compliance with social
distancing rules, to prevent gatherings, to ensure hand hygiene and the use of face masks. Miguel Albuquerque also said that although a recent outbreak at Santa Casa da Misericórdia had been brought under control, it could have been
much worse. He added that all transmission chains have been identified, which means there is no need for sanitary cordons to be imposed. However, he guaranteed he will not hesitate to impose a new lockdown if Madeira starts to face a
situation of active community transmission even if it means disrupting the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/112350/Confinamento_na_Madeira_nao_esta_fora_de_hipotese
Warning on fake phone calls to elderly residents
The Municipality of Santa Cruz has issued a warning about fake phone calls being made to several elderly residents. The fake callers have been telling elderly residents to head towards a van that is supposedly parked next to the the
football pitch (campo de Futebol das Faias) in Achada de Gaula, in order to be tested for Covid-19. The Municipality made several contacts, including to the local health authorities, and confirmed that this information is
false. The aim of these fake calls is not known and the Municipality has warned the population to be alert and not to head to the aforementioned place.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/09/camara-de-santa-cruz-alerta-para-telefonemas-falsos/
Air Force airlifted 8 patients in the last week
From the 30th of November until the 6th of December, the Portuguese Air Force airlifted 8 patients for urgent medical treatment. A total of 5 patients were airlifted within the Azores, 1 from the Azores to the Mainland, 1 within Madeira
and 1 from Madeira to the Mainland. The Air Force used C-295M aircraft from 502 Squadron “Elefantes“, Falcon 50 aircraft from 504 Squadron “Linces” and EH-101 Merlin helicopters from 751 Squadron “Pumas” to
carry out these missions, which had a total flight time of 21h35.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/112164/Forca_Aerea_transporta_oito_doentes_na_ultima_semana_
Disruptions due to public works
The Municipality of Funchal announced the following traffic disruptions will take place, due to public works, on the 14th of December:
Modernisation of the water supply network at Caminho de Santo António, scheduled to last until the 4th of January 2021:
– Caminho de Santo António (between Rua Nova do Pico de São João and Rua das Maravilhas) to be
cordoned off, except for residents;
– Access to Caminho de Santo António from Travessa da Cruz de Carvalho to be cordoned off, except for residents:
– Drivers at Levada de São and Travessão de São João, heading towards Caminho de Santo António, will be diverted to Rua das Maravilhas
Road resurfacing at Caminho da Igreja, in São Gonçalo, scheduled to last until the 16th of December:
– Caminho da Igreja (between Rua Conde Carvalhal and Caminho da Bica de Pau) cordoned off for road traffic,
except for residents;
– Bus service number 37 (Horários do Funchal bus company) – heading upwards will head through Rua Conde Carvalhal towards Estrada da Camacha and will then resume its scheduled route & heading downwards will head through Estrada da
Camacha towards Rua Conde Carvalhal and will then resume its scheduled route.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/11/cmf-avisa-para-condicionamentos-devidos-a-obras-publicas/
Power cut
Empresa de Electricidade da Madeira (Madeira power supplier) announced there will be power cuts in the following days, due to planned work on the electricity supply network. These works must not be postponed. The following areas will be
affected:
FUNCHAL
15th December – 09h00 to 11h30 & 14h00 to 16h00
– Estrada do Lombo chão (numbers 31 to 51)
– Vereda das Balseiras (numbers 9, 11 and 37)
– Impasse das Balceiras
16th December – 09h00 to 11h30 & 14h00 to 16h00
– Estrada da Fajã dos Cardos (numbers 95, 99 and 101)
– Vereda da Fajã dos Cardos (number 21-A)
– Vereda da Fajã do Capitão
– Vereda da Beira do Palheiro
ARCO DA CALHETA
16th December – 10h00 to 12h00
– Sítio do Pinheiro
CANHAS
16th December – 10h00 to 12h00
– SítIo do Pomar; Sítio da Levada do Poso (including britadeira AFA); Sítio das Eiras; Sítio do Chope; Sítio da Cova grande; Sítio da Malhadinha
(including britadeira)
– Parque Empresarial dos Canhas
– Vacaria
– Ovo Girão
However, power could be restored during the time frame mentioned above. So, for safety purposes, it should be assumed that there will be power at any time during this period of time. If necessary, customers can contact the free Customer
Support Service (Serviço de Apoio ao Cliente): 800 221 187.
Madeira Report Wednesday 9th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 76 new Covid-19 cases and 43 recoveries from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. Once again, the vast majority of new cases were cases of local transmission.
On Saturday, there were 11 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passengers who had arrived from Russia, 1 who had arrived from the UK, 1 who had arrived from Venezuela and 7 cases of local transmission) and 7 recoveries. All cases of local
transmission were linked to previously identified cases. The number of patients in hospital increased to 11 although none were in intensive care.
On Sunday, there were 23 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passengers who
had arrived from outside the UK, 2 who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 2 who had arrived from Northern Portugal and 17 cases of local transmission) and 11 recoveries. Four children, 3 of whom from educational
establishments in the municipalities of Funchal and Machico, and 2 healthcare professionals from SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) were among the new cases. The number of patients in hospital increased to 13, with 2 of them being in the
Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit.
On Monday, there were 29 new Covid-19 cases (from 1 passenger who had arrived from Romania and 28 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. Seven children from schools in the municipalities of Câmara de Lobos, Funchal and Machico
and 3 professionals from the security and military forces were among the new cases of local transmission. Most cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases and 1 was still under epidemiological investigation.
The number of patients in hospital increased to 17, with 3 of them going into the Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit.
And on Tuesday, there were 13 new Covid-19 cases (from 1 passenger who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region, 1 who had arrived from Poland, 1 who arrived from Germany, 1 who had arrived from Venezuela and 9 cases of local
transmission) and 11 recoveries. All cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases. Among the new cases of local transmission, 1 was from a child who attends an educational establishment in the municipality of
Funchal, 2 were from adults who work at an educational establishment in the municipality of Machico, 1 was from a healthcare professional who works in health and social care in both private and public sector and 1 was from an adult who
works for the Municipality of Funchal. The number of patients in hospital decreased to 14, 3 of whom are in the Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit.
There are currently 259 active cases, of which 50 were imported and identified through airport screening while the other 209 cases were a result of local transmission. Also, 29 cases are from non-residents while 230 are from Madeira
residents. So far, there have been 934 cases, 673 recoveries and 2 deaths.
There are currently 23 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 222 patients in isolation at their own accommodation and 14 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, 3 of whom are in the Covid-19
Intensive Care Unit..
At the moment, 8,087 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 1,503 people being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira
municipalities and in Porto Santo.
There are currently 203 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, of which 10 were identified through airport screening while the remaining 193 are linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls
made to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Tuesday, there had been 2,394 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 113,979 samples had been collected until Tuesday (at 18h30). Overall, 187,197 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 654 calls from Friday to Tuesday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline is 19,679.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111801/Covid-19_Doentes_internados_passam_a_ser_11
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/08/mais-13-casos-activos-203-novos-casos-suspeitos-de-covid-19/
12 Madeiran companies donated more than 1.7 Tonnes of food to Food Bank
Banco Alimentar da Madeira (the Madeira branch of Banco Alimentar – one of the most famous food banks in Portugal) received a donation of 1,773 Kg of food through Operation Christmas Tonne (Operação Tonelada de Natal).
This donation by 12 Madeiran companies aims to reinforce the effort to respond to an increasing number of requests for help. Fátima Aveiro, the leader of Banco Alimentar da Madeira praised the “commendable” attitude of these
companies, which have also been facing their own troubles. She explained a regular volunteer to the institution had challenged this group of businesspeople to join forces to collect food to donate. Despite this sizeable donation, she
explained the importance of increasing the number of donations.
The increase in unemployment highlights the urgent need to help whoever has lost their livelihoods as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. She added that Banco Alimentar da Madeira needs plenty of food to be donated because it is
not known how the pandemic situation will develop. According to her, the number of requests for help increased by more than 100% in comparison with the period before the pandemic. At the moment, 8.500 families in the Autonomous Region
of Madeira are being supported by Banco Alimentar da Madeira. All food donated to Banco Alimentar da Madeira is distributed to several institutions in the region which subsequently deliver it to families in need.
Two people arrested for drug trafficking
The Regional Command of PSP Madeira (Comando Regional da Polícia de Segurança Pública da Madeira) announced the arrest of two males, aged 30 (from the Municipality of Câmara de Lobos) and 32 (from the Municipality of Funchal),
for hashish and heroin trafficking.
One of the men was arrested on the 5th of December at his home, where Police seized
5 cannabis plants and dried cannabis leaves that were ready for consumption weighing 286.30 grams. He is subject to a statement of identity and residence.
The other man was arrested in the early hours of Sunday after being stopped in a traffic stop and attempting to escape. Police seized 396 doses of hashish, 376 doses of cocaine, a digital scale, a motorbike and a wide range of equipment
for use in illegal trafficking of drugs. He was remanded in police custody while waiting to appear at court.
The Regional Command of PSP Madeira reiterated its commitment to fight against drug trafficking and highlighted that the Câmara de Lobos Police Division has already made 21 arrests for drug trafficking this year.
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/07/psp-deteve-dois-individuos-por-trafico-de-haxixe-e-cocaina/
Volunteers invited to help clean coastal areas in Porto Santo
The project “Porto Santo Sem Lixo Marinho” (Porto Santo Without Marine Litter) will be taking place from the 14th to the 19th of December. The aim of this project is to clean coastal areas and even streams and other areas that
contribute to the build-up of potential marine litter. If you are interested in helping, you must gather a group of people from your family or friends (maximum 5 people), choose a day and time you are all available, choose the place
where you would like to help, sign up for the project and head to the city hall (Câmara Municipal de Porto Santo) to collect the cleaning equipment. Applications can be made until the 11th of December at 12h30 by sending an email
to rubinabrito@cm-portosanto.pt
Below is a translation of the application form:
Ficha de Inscrição – Application Form
Local da limpeza – Place to clean up
Coordenadas GPS (não obrigatório) – GPS coordinates (not required)
Nome Participante – Name of the volunteer
Data de Nascimento – Date of birth
Nº do Cartão Cidadão – Citizen Card Number (Passport number may also be accepted)
NIF – Tax Number (perhaps not required)
Morada – Address
Código Postal – Post Code
Localidade – Location
Contacto Telefónico – Phone number
Endereço de E-Mail – Email address
https://cm-portosanto.pt/porto-santo-sem-lixo-marinho-2/
Water supply disruptions
As a result of scheduled work on the water supply chain, there will be water supply disruptions in the Municipality of Câmara de Lobos. The following areas will be affected:
– 9th December (from 09h00 to 13h00) – Parish of Câmara de Lobos (Nogueira and Pedregal) & Parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos (Garachico)
– 9th December (from 11h00 to 15h00) – Parish of Câmara de Lobos (Nogueira)
– 10th December (from 09h00 to 13h00) – Parish of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos (Nogueira and Pedregal)
http://www.aguasdamadeira.com.pt/noticias.aspx?n=200#.X9BswS10cWo
Power cut
Empresa de Electricidade da Madeira (Madeira power supplier) announced there will be power cuts in the following days, due to planned work on the electricity supply network. These works must not be postponed. The following areas will be
affected:
FUNCHAL
10th December – 09h00 to 11h30 & 14h00 to 16h00
– Caminho de São Roque (numbers 1 to 84-A)
11th December – 00h00 to 07h00
– Caminho do Monte (numbers 155 to 240)
– Caminho dos Pocinhos
– Caminho da Lombada (numbers 49 to 54)
– Caminho das Lajinhas (numbers 3 to 28)
– Caminho do Desterro (until number 62)
– Caminho da Confeiteira (number 1)
– Caminho das Babosas (numbers 8 to 10)
– Azinhaga da Cancela (number 39)
– Largo das Babosas
– Beco do Pereira
– Vereda das Quintas (until number 33)
– Vereda do Cabeço (numbers 3 and 7)
CÂMARA DE LOBOS
10th December – 09h00 to 11h00
– Estrada de Santa Clara (between even number 174 and odd number 203)
However, power could be restored during the time frame mentioned above. So, for safety purposes, it should be assumed that there will be power at any time during this period of time.
If necessary, customers can contact the free Customer Support Service (Serviço de Apoio ao Cliente): 800 221 187.
Madeira Situation Report 5th December by Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 60 new Covid-19 cases and 38 recoveries from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report. Once again, the vast majority of new cases were cases of local transmission. On Friday, Madeira registered the
highest ever number of new Covid-19 cases in a single day.
On Wednesday, all 13 new Covid-19 cases were cases of local transmission. One of the cases was from a healthcare professional working in the private sector. There were also 10 recoveries.
On Thursday, there were 15 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passengers who had arrived from the UK and 13 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. All new cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases and 3 of
them were from children (aged 5-12) attending schools in the municipalities of Funchal and Câmara de Lobos.
And on Friday, there were 32 new Covid-19 cases (from 1 passenger who had arrived from Northern Portugal
and 31 cases of local transmission) and 14 recoveries. Most
cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases while 3 are still under epidemiological investigation. Five of the new cases were from children (aged 2-16) with 4 of them attending schools in the municipalities of
Funchal and Machico. One of the cases was from an adult who works at the same school in the municipality of Machico.
There are currently 226 active cases, of which 42 were imported and identified through airport screening while the other 184 cases were a result of local transmission. Also, 27 cases are from non-residents while 177 are from Madeira
residents. So far, there have been 858 cases, 630 recoveries and 2 deaths.
There are currently 27 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 190 patients in isolation at their own accommodation and 9 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça.
At the moment, 6,252 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 1,259 people being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira
municipalities and in Porto Santo.
There are currently 136 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis, of which 8 were identified through airport screening while the remaining 128 are linked to patients who tested positive for Covid-19, to calls
made to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM (Madeira Regional Health Service). As of Friday, there had been 2,2318 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 111,841 samples had been collected until Friday (at 18h30). Overall, 181,370 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 517 calls from Tuesday to Friday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline is 19,025.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111518/Madeira_com_mais_13_novos_casos_de_transmissao_local
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111610/Madeira_com_mais_15_novos_casos_13_de_transmissao_local
53,000 rapid antigen tests available in Madeira
Yesterday, The Portuguese Air Force delivered a batch of 50,000 Covid-19 rapid antigen tests. Madeira had already received 3,000 rapid antigen tests last week. The health authorities hope to use these tests in very specific contexts,
namely in situations in which the risks are known, in order to quickly identify and isolate positive cases. These tests can be processed without using any laboratory equipment and at the same place where the sample is collected.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111609/53_mil_testes_rapidos_de_antigenios_ja_estao_na_Madeira
Remarks from Miguel Albuquerque
Miguel Albuquerque, the President of the Madeira Regional Government, expressed approval for the renewal of the State of Emergency, said Madeira is facing “the most critical complicated, risky and difficult moment” in the pandemic and
advised young people to very careful. He warned young people can also develop complications from Covid-19. He is also worried that people have still not understood that this year’s festivities must be celebrated in a different way.
As for the Covid-19 vaccine, he remains confident that the vaccine task force will present a “thoroughly structured plan” in due time. He confirmed the Region will receive 200,000 vaccine doses and said Covid-19 vaccination in Madeira
is likely to begin at the start of 2021. He refused to commit to a specific date so as not to raise expectations.
He also praised Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, for having ordered vaccine supplies for all European Union countries despite Public Health not being an area of competence for the EU. He argued her
intervention not only prevented a race and a dispute for the vaccine but also ensured equal treatment for all member-states.
On a lighter note, Miguel Albuquerque praised the Christmas lights that were set up in Funchal and highlighted the technological innovations, particularly at Largo do Chafariz.
Levada do Barreiro walking route temporarily closed
The PR 4- Levada do Barreiro (Poço da Nave – Casa do Barreiro) walking route is temporarily closed for safety reasons due to the collapse of the canal and pavement at Levada do Barreiro as a result of bad weather, which caused
obstructions along the route.
Porto Moniz hotel closed due to Legionnaires’ disease
A case of Legionnaires’ disease was detected on a Madeiran resident who had stayed in a hotel in the Municipality of Porto Moniz. An epidemiological investigation carried out by the regional health authorities on the hotel building,
equipment and water samples collected from the compound found traces of the Legionella bacteria. The hotel was closed and will remain so until there is no risk to public health.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111698/Bacteria_encerra_unidade_hoteleira_no_Porto_Moniz
Power cut
Empresa de Electricidade da Madeira (Madeira power supplier) announced there will be power cuts in the following days, due to planned work on the electricity supply network. These works must not be postponed. The following areas will be
affected:
FUNCHAL
7th December – 09h00 to 11h30 & 14h00 to 16h00
– Estrada Dr. João Abel de Freitas (numbers 71 to 140)
– Rua do Cano
– Travessa do Cano (numbers 6 and 7)
However, power could be restored during the time frame mentioned above. So, for safety purposes, it should be assumed that there will be power at any time during this period of time.
If necessary, customers can contact the free Customer Support Service (Serviço de Apoio ao Cliente): 800 221 187.
Madeira Situation Report Wednesday 2nd December 2020 by our volunteer Daniel Fernandes
Covid-19 update
There were 46 new Covid-19 cases and 28 recoveries from Covid-19 in Madeira since the previous Madeira Situation Report.
On Saturday, there were 15 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passengers who had arrived from Germany, 1 who had arrived from Sweden, 1 who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region and 11 cases of local transmission) and 8
recoveries. Five of the new cases of local transmission were from children and young people (aged 11-19) who attend educational establishments in the Municipalities of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal, including a higher education
establishment.
On Sunday, there were 12 new Covid-19 cases, all from local transmission. Three of the cases were from children (aged 8-12) who attend educational establishments in the Municipalities of Santa Cruz and Funchal;
one case was from an adult who works at an educational establishment in
the Municipality of Machico while another case was from a SESARAM (Madeira Health Service) healthcare professional. There was also 1 recovery.
On Monday, there were 14 new Covid-19 cases (from 2 passenger who had arrived from the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Region, 1 passenger who had arrived from France, 1 who had arrived from Luxembourg and 1 who had arrived from Poland and 9
cases of local transmission) and 9 recoveries. Most of the 25 cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified positive cases and 1 was still under investigation.
And on Tuesday, there were 5 new Covid-19 cases (from 1 passenger who had arrived from Spain and 4 cases of local transmission. Most cases of local transmission were linked to previously identified cases and 1 was still under
investigation. There were also 10 recoveries from Covid-19.
There are currently 204 active cases, of which 42 were imported and identified through airport screening while the other 162 were a result of local transmission. As for the active cases, 27 are from non-residents while 177 are from
Madeira residents. So far, there have been 798 cases, 592 recoveries and 2 deaths.
Below are the total number of Covid-19 cases by municipality (since the start of the pandemic):
Funchal: 198
Câmara de Lobos: 106
Santa Cruz: 94
Machico: 17
Ponta do Sol: 14
Calheta: 8
Ribeira Brava : 6
Porto Santo: 4
Santana: 2
São Vicente: 2
Porto Moniz: 1
There are currently 28 patients in isolation at a dedicated hotel, 173 patients in isolation at their own accommodation and 3 patients are in the Covid-19 unit at Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, including 1 patient who remains in the
Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit.
At the moment, 5,941 visitors are under monitoring by the health authorities. Monitoring is being carried out through the ‘MadeiraSafe’ app. There are also 1,392 people being monitored by the health authorities of several Madeira
municipalities and in Porto Santo.
There are currently 119 suspected cases under epidemiological investigation and analysis. One of the suspected cases was identified through airport screening while the remaining 118 are linked to patients who tested positive for
Covid-19, to calls made to the SRS24 helpline and to referrals by SESARAM. As of Tuesday, there had been 2,258 suspected cases, of which 1,460 were not confirmed.
As for Covid-19 testing on passengers who had arrived at Funchal and Porto Santo airports, 971 samples had been collected until Tuesday (at 18h30). Overall, 178,672 samples have been processed in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
The SRS 24 helpline (Regional Health Service – 800 24 24 20) received 488 calls from Tuesday to Friday. Overall, the total number of calls made to this helpline is 18,508.
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111143/Covid-19_15_novos_casos_11_de_transmissao_local
https://www.jm-madeira.pt/regiao/ver/111362/Madeira_com_mais_14_novos_casos_de_covid-19
Overcrowded bars and restaurants
Two bars were forced to close and several owners were fined for not complying with social distancing and the maximum capacity limits. A joint operation by ARAE (Autoridade Regional de Atividades Económicas –
Regional Economic Activity Authority), BIR (Brigada de Intervenção Rápida –
Rapid Intervention Brigade) and the Criminal Investigation department of PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública – Public Security Police) was carried out on Saturday evening and in the early hours of Sunday in bars and restaurants in the
municipalities of Câmara de Lobos, Machico and Santa Cruz. There had been similar inspections in the previous 2 weekends.
Reacting to these developments, Pedro Ramos (Madeira Health and Civil Protection Secretary) revealed the Regional Government has been working to ensure there is a decrease in these situations and appealed for the public, particularly
bar and restaurant customers to comply with the Covid-19 rules. He also praised the ARAE and the PSP for their role in enforcing compliance with these rules.
Small tourism recovery in October
It is estimated that 57,300 tourists visited Madeira in October and accounted for 285,800 stays. This is an increase from the number of stays in September. This is the first time there has been such an increase in the
current century. It is also also estimated the number of stays was
bigger in October than in August.
As for the main tourist markets, there was some recovery despite the figures being lower than in October 2019. For instance, the French market recorded the biggest fall in the number of stays (-80.2%). The German market fell by 67,7%
while the British market had a smaller decrease (-46.6%. The British market also accounted for 34,400 more stays in October than in September.
It was also revealed that 50.4% of local tourist accommodation establishments were closed or did not host any guests in October, while 72.2% of hotels hosted guests (compared to 68.9% in September).
Christmas lights in Funchal
In some rare cheerful news, Christmas lights have been set up in Funchal. Locals and tourists have already been cheered by the sight of these lights. Readers can view photos of Funchal’s beautiful Christmas lights on the following link:
https://funchalnoticias.net/2020/12/01/funchal-ja-refulge-com-as-luzes-de-natal/