Heightened screening of persons entering the territory in the wake of the recent Novel Coronavirus epidemic causing a stir worldwide, will see ports across the Virgin Islands being outfitted with new isolation areas. Photo: VINO

Premier Andrew A. Fahie along with Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Carvin Malone (AL)has indicated that currently, officers are in the process of securing quotes and gathering information on the cost of installation for the isolation areas. Photo: VINO

Hon Carvin Malone made it clear that closing the borders and ports of entries in the territory will not be considered but rather, they will put all systems in place to deal with the issue. Photo: VINO

Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon Carvin Malone (AL) said currently, officers are in the process of securing quotes and information for the installation of isolation areas at the various ports in the territory, "We have about six or seven ports of entry, we are going to beef up all of those areas."

He also indicated that the government is likely to adopt best practices from at least one other country, for border protection measures.

Hon Malone made it clear that closing the borders of theTerritory is not a measure being considering but rather, they will put all the systems in place, "So that we take seriously any persons coming through."

This was unveiled as part of an impromptu press conference called by the government yesterday, February 27, 2020, as word circulated of one person being placed into local quarantine after showing signs that are common with the Coronavirus infection.

Protecting People at all cost

Leading the press conference was Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A Fahie (R1),who made it clear that the government, through its relevant agencies, intends to protect the people of the territory at all cost and will turn to the contingency funds if necessary.

According to the Premier, key government officials already had a meeting with stakeholders to examine what measures are in place and what areas need strengthening to protect the Territory.

He added, "But I want to give the credit to my health officials, the Minister of Health and his entire team because there are countries larger than us, are battling... or try to cope with the virus. I think we are doing extremely well so far." 

The Premier noted that when events like these happen, it is only wise for leaders of government to take a strategic look at the entire situation and determine the way forward. He said he remains confident there were more things correctly done as opposed to areas of concerns that now have to be addressed.

Virus testing facilities being developed

Speaking to the press, CEO of the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr Ronald E. Georges said the BVI Health Service Authority (BVIHSA) is currently working assiduously to up the Territory's testing abilities.

"We have a PCR machine at the hospital and we have ordered test kits. There are some additional requirements that we have to do to be certified to do those tests and we are hoping to have that completed in about a week or so. It involves not just some things that we have to purchase but we have to make sure our quality control is in place."

Dr Georges explained that process requires them doing some tests and sending them overseas for confirmation, "Once that process is finished we would have the ability to do testing in Territory and our turn around time would be much quicker, within 24 hours."

Publicity Campaigns 

As part of the public awareness campaign, the Premier said authorities will be doing a number of live broadcasts in the coming weeks as spot checks to create a sense of normalcy.

He said the broadcasts will show people what is in place and how certain things are being done as it relates to the issue