The Ministry of Health and Social Development has confirmed that two more persons have died as a result of COVID-19 bringing the total number of deaths in the Virgin Islands to 51.

The deceased are a 98-year-old male who died on January 28, and a 69-year-old male who died on January 30.

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone expressed condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands.

Meanwhile, Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges has said that active cases have fallen to 181 in the Territory with 12 persons currently hospitalised and continues to advocate for persons to be vaccinated.

 “Developing immunity through vaccination will reduce the risk of severe disease particularly among the vulnerable who are more at risk of more severe disease and complications of COVID-19,” Dr. Georges stated.

The Chief Medical Officer explained that people at increased risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19 include older or elderly adults and people with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, pulmonary, liver or kidney disease, as well as those who have immunocompromise such as persons on treatment for cancer or who are on immunosuppressive medications.

Persons are urged to reduce their risk of the severe impacts of COVID-19 by getting vaccinated or boosted, washing and/or sanitising their hands (for 20 seconds), wearing masks properly and ensuring mask covers nose and mouth, physically distancing (3ft) and covering coughs and sneezes regardless of vaccination status.

Please stay healthy and safe! Remember we will get through this together.

The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to improving the health and well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands.