Both the Premier and Deputy Premier of the British Virgin Islands have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
In a late statement on Christmas Eve, Premier Andrew Fahie informed the public that he had tested positive for the virus after being in close contact with Deputy Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley who previously tested positive for the virus.
He said, “I must also inform, that during the early part of this afternoon I was informed by the Health Officials for the need to have me tested as a result of me being in close contact with someone who had recently tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, late this afternoon, 24 December, 2021, I was tested for COVID-19 and the results returned as positive.”
He added, “The testing was consistent with the established protocols where our Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, recently tested positive for COVID-19 and all his listed recent contacts – of which I was one – required to also be tested.”
My close contacts are all negative so far
Premier Fahie also said that none of his close contacts including his entire family have so far returned negative results for the virus after undergoing recent testing.
He also said he will be isolating for the 10 required days and assured the public that he and Dr. Wheatley were all in good spirits as they both felt strong.
He said, “Due to the aforementioned results, I am following the instructions of the Health Professionals to isolate for ten days. I have also been advised that due to being fully vaccinated, and having recently taken the booster shot, this has contributed to my immune system being in the best possible position to “fight off” the virus and its possible negative effects thereby giving me the best chance for a full and fast recovery.”
“I want the public, from Districts One to Nine, to know that I am in good spirits. I am feeling as normal as can be, and I continue to perform my duties and responsibilities as Premier remotely. I am pleased to report also that the Deputy Premier is also feeling strong and is also expected to have a full recovery. He also continues to perform the duties of his office remotely,” Premier Fahie added.