The Ministry of Health and Social Development is confirming the passing of one person on New Year’s Day due to complications of COVID bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to 40.

Persons with containers, equipment and materials situated on the Festival Grounds are being advised to have them removed.

This notice is to be treated with the highest priority as the Festival Grounds has been booked from December 24 to March 31. Failure to remove will result in removal at the cost to owner.

For more information, persons should contact the City Manager, Mrs. Janice Edwards-Brathwaite at 441-8800 or email tempwcda@gmail.com

The public and tourism partners are notified of the cancellation of the calls of Queen Mary, Queen Victoria, and Wind Surf due to rising numbers of COVID-19 cases aboard these vessels.  Cruise ships are part of a mandatory reporting system which include the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), and regional ministries of health. 

Premier and Minister of Finance the Honourable Andrew A. Fahie and Deputy Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley continue to make great strides towards recovery after being affected with the COVID-19 virus.

I once again wish everyone Happy Holidays and GOD'S BLESSINGS.

I must also inform that during the early part of this afternoon I was informed by the Health Officials for the need to have me tested as a result of me being in close contact with someone who had recently tested positive for Covid-19. As a result, late this afternoon, 24 December, 2021, I was tested for COVID-19 and the results returned as positive.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is advising the public to remain vigilant amid recent increases in COVID-19 positive cases in the Territory. 

Travelers to the Virgin Islands who are fully vaccinated can now present a RT-PCR or Approved Antigen SARS COV-2 negative test result, taken within 48-hours before arrival to the Territory.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging parents to remain vigilant as hand foot and mouth disease is on the rise in the Territory.

Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities Honorable Kye M. Rymer is encouraging residents to continue to support the officers of the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service.

I extend greetings to everyone in the Virgin Islands, the Region and the World.  I extend prayers and words of condolences to all families who have lost loved ones during this trying period, whether by COVID or other causes.