At a COVID-19 travel update this morning, the Minister said that in the local case, there was no active travel history, as such, the infection was acquired locally.

Based on COVID-19 updates, authorities have been able to trace the virus through contact or travel history; However, in Community spread cases, this is when an individual gets the virus without any known contact with someone infected with the virus.

At a COVID-19 travel update this morning, Hon Carvin Malone said that in the case, there was no active travel history, as such, the infection was acquired locally.

Day-trips allowed but with return policy

Meanwhile, Hon Malone announced policies for day-trippers who reside in the VI and are looking to travel out of the territory for less than 24hrs.

He said with effect from May 15, 2021, fully vaccinated persons present in the VI for more than 14 consecutive days will be allowed to travel to Puerto-Rico, St Martin and US Virgin Islands (USVI).

These persons will be exempted from quarantine and a COVID-19 test upon returning to the VI, however, they must take a PCR test seven days after arrival.

At a cost of $70, these individuals will have to register in the BVI Gateway Travel portal prior to departing the VI.

Hon said day-trippers, will be allowed to travel with children under 5-years old, he said, however, if these persons refuse the day 7 COVID-19 testing, they face a fixed penalty of $5,000 or a $10,000 court penalty on summary conviction.