STATEMENT FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

ON THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE COVID-19 RESPONSE

MARCH 4, 2020

The Ministry of Health and Social Development has successfully stood up its first Health Emergency Operations Centre to lead the COVID-19 response. This team brings together specialists from across public health under a unified leadership, with support from additional teams to help share information, coordinate with regional authorities, manage suspected cases, organise the logistical response, and carry out other necessary response activities.

The Incident Commander, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Irad Potter has reported as of March 4, a total of three (3) British Virgin Islands residents were tested by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and all results were negative for the virus that causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

This includes a BVIslander who recently returned from an affected country and had remained quarantined at home in accordance with established protocols.

No additional health information in relation to the testing of persons under investigation will be reported. However, the Ministry of Health and Social Development will continue to provide statistical updates and will alert the public immediately upon detection of the virus.

As the COVID-19 disease continues to spread around the world and cases are confirmed within our region, the Government remains vigilant in its monitoring and surveillance activities, public health measures, and community awareness and engagement.

For more information and updates on the COVID-19 response, persons can visit www.bvi.gov.vg/novel-coronavirus-info.