Residents in the British Virgin Islands are being urged to self-isolate and test if exposed to anyone who tests positive for COVID-19, as active cases rise to 151 in the territory.
The message comes from the Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges who made the statement in a media release from the Ministry of Health on Tuesday.
He said, “Persons who have been exposed to a positive case meaning a mask-less contact for at least 15 minutes or who think that they have been exposed to a positive case of COVID-19 should ensure that they wear a well-fitted mask when around others.”
Dr. Georges implied that six persons were recently admitted to the Dr. D Orlando Smith Hospital for matters unrelated to COVID, but later tested positive after undergoing a COVID test.
Self-isolate for 10 days
He also reminded residents who test positive that the required isolation period is 10 days before reintegrating back into the community.
“Persons can resume normal activities if they test negative by rapid test 7 days after onset of symptoms or on completion of 10 days of self-isolation without a COVID-19 test,” the release stated.
Avoid contact with the vulnerable if positive
The Acting CMO also urged positive persons to refrain from coming into contact with vulnerable persons.
He said positive persons should avoid these persons for “10 to 14 days, conduct a COVID-19 test 5 to 7 days after the exposure and continue to monitor themselves for 10-14 days after which they can go back to normal precautions.”
The territory is being asked to remain vigilant and seek to self-isolate and be tested if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19. These include fever, aches, cough, or nasal symptoms.
Persons experiencing more severe symptoms or who may be vulnerable should seek medical attention.