'This is a stressful time'- Gov Jaspert on global Coronavirus threat
In a March 3, 2020 statement, Governor Jaspert noted that the NEOC activation is to prepare the Territory to have the best possible response to the ongoing global COVID-19 outbreak.
No need to fear - Gov Jaspert
"Residents should not fear this announcement but should be reassured that Government is taking the risk of a new virus arriving on our shores very seriously. I remind you all that at Level 1, key agencies within the NEOC are closely monitoring the situation and are standing by to escalate our activation level, should that prove necessary," he said as part of his statements.
According to the Governor, the activation effectively means the Ministry of Health in addition to other health experts will continue to lead the way as the Territory takes all prudent precautionary measures.
"Activating the NEOC will mean that our health sector experts will be supported in their work by the Department of Disaster Management in their function as a coordinating body, and by the other NEOC support structures to help share information, activate sectoral plans, identify relevant resources, and intensify all readiness actions to ensure that the Territory is adequately prepared to deal with COVID-19," Governor Jaspert noted.
Slew of Measures implemented
On Monday, March 2, 2020, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Social Development, Hon Carvin Malone (AL) announced a slew of measures the Territory is taking in preparedness and response to any COVID-19 threats faced by the Virgin Islands.
Honourable Malone also announced that Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has approved $3M as special funding towards implementing the measures against Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Reiterating some of those measures, Governor Jaspert said at ports of entry, surveillance has been increased to ensure that travellers from areas that are already being affected by the virus receive all the appropriate screenings.
"The Ministry of Health continues to work closely with regional and global health agencies to make sure that we are operating from the most up-to-date information about the characteristics of the virus as well as its prevalence."
He said they have further stood up the Quarantine Authority so that Ports, Customs and Immigration officers can be advised of the latest safety and screening precautions.
Practice Good Hygiene
Governor Jaspert urged the people of the Territory that protection is prevention, and the best prevention against the virus is to practice good hand and respiratory hygiene by washing hands thoroughly and regularly and covering sneezes and coughs.
"I know that this is a stressful time, especially for those of you who are caring for young children, the elderly, or others who may have compromised immune systems. Please continue to take every precaution at your homes, schools and businesses, and be assured that the government is doing the same," Governor Jaspert said.
In the neighbouring United States Virgin Islands (USVI), some three individuals are considered Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) of having contracted the rapidly spreading coronavirus, local media reported.
23 Responses to “'This is a stressful time'- Gov Jaspert on global Coronavirus threat ”
The BVI needs to becareful with this snake in the Grass go......
SMDH