The Ministry of Health and Social Development is reminding the public to be vigilant about the expected seasonal increase in fever and respiratory conditions.

Acting Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Ronald Georges said residents, business owners, owners and managers of daycares, schools, and marina operators in the Territory are to be alert as around this time of year, there are increases in fever and respiratory condition and that is presently the case.  

Dr. Georges said, “Heavy rains coupled with unmanaged mosquito breeding sites can further complicate this picture with transmission of Dengue and Chikungunya, therefore persons are advised to reduce mosquito breeding sites in and around their premises.”

Residents are also reminded to stay away from work or school if they are ill with a fever or respiratory condition and to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe and where appropriate.  He further explained that dengue fever continues to be a concern in Latin America and the Caribbean with continued transmission in the region. 

“Similarly, other respiratory conditions such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza, Coronavirus, and other influenza-like viruses continue to circulate,” the CMO noted.

The public is urged to continue proper hand hygiene and sanitation practices as well as covering coughs to minimise the spread of respiratory diseases.

Persons are asked to ensure that all loose containers, standing water, or any areas that can act as mosquito breeding sites are removed.

Dr. Georges is also reminding the public that reducing mosquito breading sites will greatly assist the Environmental Health Officers as they continue their efforts to control vectors in the Territory. He said cases of dengue are reported to the Environmental Health Division and members of the public with reported cases can expect follow up from the Ministry of Health.

The community is also being asked to use Government’s BVIGOVREPORTIT app to notify the unit of vector control related issues that require a response from either the Waste Management Department or the Environmental Health Division.

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