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STIs continue to rise across VI

-2026 Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign launched
The Ministry of Health and Wellness is reporting that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) across the Virgin Islands (VI) continue to rise. Photo: Internet Source
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched its 2026 Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign as it continues to encourage safe sex. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched its 2026 Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign as it continues to encourage safe sex. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Ministry of Health and Wellness is reporting that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) across the Virgin Islands (VI) continue to rise.

This information was released as the Ministry launched its 2026 Wrap it Up Re-Loaded Valentine’s campaign and continues to encourage safe sex. In February 2025, the Ministry also reported an increase in STIs. 

Public Health Officer Ms Renee Leonard said in a press release issued on February 6, 2026, that the campaign is critical as the increase in STIs has been reported. 

“Valentine’s Day is often associated with love and connection, and we wanted to use this moment to remind the community that real love includes protection, honesty, and informed choices. Knowing your sexual health status is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself and your partner.”

2026 campaign activities

This year, the Valentine’s Edition of the Wrap it Up campaign will feature daily themed messages throughout the week, focusing on confidence, communication, wellness, and shared responsibility in relationships. 

The initiative aims to normalise STI testing, reduce stigma, and reinforce the importance of regular sexual health checks.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development has partnered with the Wellness Center Clinics and Sapphire Health to offer special Valentine’s Day testing promotions, making it easier for individuals to access sexual health services.

“We encourage everyone to pay attention to the information, take ownership of their sexual health and make choices that protect themselves and others…Be faithful to one partner, use barrier contraceptives, know your status, and enjoy Valentine’s Day responsibly,” Ms Leonard added.

The ministry will also roll out educational content through its February Newsletter, flyers, radio advertisements, and a GIS radio report highlighting key sexual health messages.

Residents seeking sexual health information or testing services are encouraged to contact the Public Health Unit at 468-2273 or visit the 3rd Floor of the Union Property Building.

3 Responses to “ STIs continue to rise across VI”

  • johnny (07/02/2026, 07:55) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    A lil bussy nah kill no one. We love it in Long Look and Greeland. Sometimes the moment take over though, and we forget to strap up. But if a good belle vue parna come thru thats nice…then its more important than drinking water. Frfr
  • Stealth (07/02/2026, 08:45) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Abstinence is a choice but sexually active is being human. Nonetheless, if choosing to be sexually active and non- monogamous, be responsible and take protective action. The game of sexual Russian roulette can be life changing and deadly.
  • Senior native citizen of the British Virgin Islands (07/02/2026, 08:53) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    Is this a suprise. With the vast majority of the people in the BVI and in other countries involving themselves in harmful sexual perversion activities, what else do you expect, a decrease in STIs diseases. It's simple. If harmful sexual practices continue and multiplying disregaring God's warning, and people worldwide continue violating the principles to safeguard their health, should we expect a lowering of STIs rather than a continuing rising of same?

    Continue Reading.

    If government leaders of the British Virgin Islands continue favoring the rich and well off, their friends and special interest suporters, thus stiffling the unemployed, not paying overtime to many government employees, traveling overseas, but showing little or no profit gained, orgy sexual even in the present of their infants on or Capital street and seaward of our yet to be reopen main government complex, etc., etc. what else do you expect other than continuing rising of STIs spiking and other crimes continuing in the B.V.I?

    Read Further, Please.

    Because sentense against evil workes is not executed speedily, therrefore the heart (mind) of (most) men (human) is fully is set in them to do evil. Ecclesiastes 8:11.
    See Psalms 10:6 and Psalms 50:21.

    Though a sinner do evil a hundren times, and his days (life) be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before Him. Ecclesiastes 8:12-13.





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