According to Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald E. Georges, as of January 3, the VI currently has 601 active confirmed cases of the virus representing some 268 new cases over the last three days.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Social Development is confirming the death of one new person on New Year’s Day 2022, due to complications related to COVID, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to 40.

“The deceased is a 71-year-old male with multiple underlying conditions and long-standing medical problems,” a release from the Ministry said.

Health Minister Hon Carvin Malone (AL) has heightened his call for the people of the Virgin Islands to adhere to established COVID-19 protocols and guidelines and avail themselves of opportunities to be vaccinated or receive their Pfizer boosters.

Health Minister expressed deepest condolence

The statement added, “Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone in expressing condolences to the family and loved ones on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands said that he is deeply saddened by the loss of lives because of the coronavirus disease.

Health Minister Hon Malone has therefore heightened his call for the people of the Virgin Islands to adhere to established COVID-19 protocols and guidelines and avail themselves of opportunities to be vaccinated or receive their Pfizer boosters.

The release also noted that at present, 12 patients are currently admitted to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital with COVID and on high flow oxygen, with no ICU admissions at this time.