Following the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the British Virgin Islands, Opposition Leader Marlon Penn has joined the message in urging residents to become vaccinated.
Penn made the plea in a recent statement where he said the recent situation being experienced in the territory is a major cause for concern.
He believes that if the territory is to reverse the increasing numbers of active COVID-19 cases, it will take the cooperation of all residents on the island who must play their part.
“For this war, every man, woman and child must join in the fight. We all have a responsibility to fight. We all have a role in this battle. We all must stand ready, and take up the mantle, for it is the future of our Virgin Islands that is at stake. We have many weapons at our disposal. The science, global experiences, and our own recent experiences has demonstrated that vaccination is the best weapon currently available,” Penn stated.
“For those of you who can safely take the vaccine after consultation with your healthcare professional, I plead with you to please do so. I repeat, if you can safely take the vaccine, please do so. To the person who is not yet vaccinated, please take the opportunity to educate yourself on issues such as the purpose of vaccinations, the risks, the benefits, its successes, herd immunity, health protocols, quarantining and self-isolating, etc. Reach out to a medical professional for guidance on these topics and advice,” he further implored.
Education campaign needs expanding
The Opposition leader also warned that a failure to seek vaccination and to adhere to the COVID-19 protocols at all times could contribute to the territory suffering more severe consequences.
These include such another 24hr lockdown, another border closure, severe collapse of our healthcare system, economy and further loss of lives.
Penn therefore called for an expansion of the territory’s education campaign on COVID-19, to assist with further enlightening residents, so that they can be further informed.
He said, “We must also expand our education campaign, and with a strong focus on the individual, if we are to make greater progress in defeating COVID-19. Every citizen needs to be engaged so that we can express, learn and understand each other’s views, fears and concerns, reservations, and truths. We must answer each other truthfully, clearly and fully, supported by credible information and the best actions to halt the spread of the virus.”
“I thank those in the medical community who have already done so, whether privately or publicly, and urge them to continue with their educational campaigns, and encourage others to be more vocal. It is imperative that our public and private health care sectors work together on any educational strategy for the benefit of the community,” he explained.
Condolences to families of those who succumbed
Penn also offered his condolences to the families and friends of loved ones who lost their lives as a result of the COVID-19 virus
He further offered his support of prayers to the many individuals who are presently battling with the virus.
“The virus has brought about an overarching feeling of loss. The loss of loved ones, the loss of livelihood, the loss of physical time with family and friends. To those who have lost loved ones, I offer my deepest condolences. It is said that “grief is love with nowhere to go. It is all the love you want to give, but cannot”. Iurge us all to take a moment of silence now in solidarity with the grieving families and to pay our respects to those that have passed,” the opposition legislator said.
He added, “To those who are otherwise affected by the current outbreak, I offer prayerful support and pray God’s blessings for your healing and restoration medically, financially, and emotionally.”