Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges is advising persons to self-isolate if they have tested positive for the COVID-19 disease.

Dr. Georges said while the disease is no longer a global health emergency and infection rates, hospitalisation and deaths are at the lowest levels in two years, persons are still advised to self-isolate.

The CMO stated, “COVID-19 continues to be present albeit at much lower levels than previously.  Exposure risk will vary based on multiple factors and most persons who test positive with the disease continue to have mild disease.”

According to Dr. Georges, factors which increase the risk of severe disease are persons 50 years and older, those with immunocompromised or weakened immune systems and individuals with underlying health conditions especially diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

Persons who are concerned or have symptoms of the disease should conduct a home test or visit a health care provider who can carry out a COVID-19 rapid test. 

“Those who have tested positive for COVID-19 should see their physician or general practitioner to obtain the necessary sick leave certificate to facilitate home self-isolation,” Dr. Georges advised. He added, “Individuals who test positive should also take the necessary precautions to protect others in their household and refrain from contact with persons outside their household until symptoms have cleared.”

Elderly persons with chronic disease or those in care homes are at high risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms or complications and should consider wearing a properly fitted mask and getting vaccinated against the disease.

COVID-19 vaccinations are available through the BVI Health Services Authority by calling the Road Town Clinic at telephone number 284-852-6566.

The community is encouraged to wash hands frequently and properly cover coughs and sneezes to reduce the risk of infection and transmission.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to protecting and promoting the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.