In a recent press release from the Government of the Virgin Islands through the Ministry of Health and Social Development, it was announced that the British Virgin Islands has been placed in the “danger zone” for the number of active cases of fever and respiratory syndromes detected at present. The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit in … Continued
The Ministry of Health and Social Development in the Virgin Islands is observing World Tobacco Day today, May 31, by joining the global fight to “Protect Young People from the Tobacco Industry.” The day serves as a platform for governments worldwide to shield youth from the predatory marketing tactics employed by the tobacco industry. Chief … Continued
The Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital Blood Bank is facing a critical shortage of all blood types and urgently needs donors to come forward. The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has issued an urgent appeal to the community to donate blood and help save lives. Potential donors are advised to visit or contact the Blood … Continued
AstraZeneca, the British-Swedish pharmaceutical giant, has announced the global withdrawal of its COVID-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria, following months of controversy surrounding its safety profile. The decision comes amid concerns over very rare, but life-threatening, side effects associated with the vaccine. The withdrawal of Vaxzevria extends beyond the European Union (EU), where the company had already discontinued … Continued
In anticipation of the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season on 1st June, the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has activated its disaster preparedness plan. The activation is part of the organization’s readiness mandate and also in light of forecasts predicting increased tropical storm activity. On 4th April, the Tropical Weather and … Continued
Three women have been diagnosed with HIV in what federal health officials in the US believe are the first documented cases of the virus being transmitted through a cosmetic procedure involving needles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the cases last week, stemming from an investigation into an unlicensed medical spa in … Continued
The Social Development Department hosted a conscious co-parenting seminar this month aimed at emphasizing the link between positive co-parenting and safeguarding children from abuse and neglect. The event was part of activities recognizing Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in the Virgin Islands. Laurel Freeman, Programme Director for Children and Family Support Services, stated that … Continued
Residents of the Virgin Islands are being urged to take precautions due to deteriorating air quality caused by a large plume of Sahara dust enveloping the territory. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has issued an advisory stating that air quality levels could reach unhealthy ranges within the next 24 hours. The dust plume is … Continued
After languishing in disrepair since the devastating hurricanes of 2017, the Burt Point Waste Water Treatment Plant has been resurrected, signalling a significant stride forward in environmental conservation and public health. A ceremony held on Friday, April 12, marked the official recommissioning of the plant, attended by esteemed dignitaries and officials. Minister for Communication and … Continued
The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has reported significant progress in resolving the air conditioning (AC) system issue at the Dr. D Orlando Hospital, with the successful installation of the replacement part. In a recent media release, the BVIHSA confirmed that the new component for the AC system has been installed and activated. However, the … Continued
