Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley has said the reason for the recent absenteeism of nurses at various clinics across the Virgin Islands is unknown at this time. Photo: Facebook

Community nurses stationed at the Jost Van Dyke clinic were absent from work on March 12, 2026. Photo: BVIHSA

Community nurses stationed at the Road Town clinic were absent from work on March 11, 2026. Photo: BVIHSA

Reports of nurses absent from work at clinics across the islands surfaced on Thursday, March 12, 2026, and the BVIHSA, in a statement, said that while it was aware that several community health staff members had reported sick, it had not received any formal notification of industrial action or organised protest.

“As a result of the reduced staffing levels, services at some community clinics have been impacted or significantly reduced. Currently, services remain available at the clinics on Anegada and Virgin Gorda, while the Authority works to address staffing at other locations,” the statement added. 

Accreditors are here, nurses are absent- Hon Wheatley 

On the evening of March 12, 2026, Hon Wheatley was the guest speaker at the Rotary Club of Central Tortola’s meeting, during which he addressed the alleged sick-out. 

“We’re not actually sure what is happening,” he confirmed. 

He assured that the VI’s health institutions are accredited but go through yearly evaluations. 

“One is happening right now in the BVI; the accreditors are here. So they’re going to various clinics and so forth.”

According to Hon Wheatley, the accreditors visited clinics in Road Town, Jost van Dyke, and Long Look between March 11 and 12, 2026, and nurses were absent at all locations. 

He said he called to inquire about the reason, whether it was a strike or a sickout and has not received a “firm answer”. 

“So it is being investigated as to exactly [what is happening]. Did someone write a letter and say if you don’t do x,y,z, we’re going to stay home? The answer is no. Did someone say anything? The answer is no. So we’re not really sure what is happening.”

In efforts to lighten the mood, Hon Wheatley added, “Maybe there’s a pandemic going around with nurses that we don’t know about.”

The BVIHSA advised patients to seek emergency care at the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital if necessary.