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by pltm
(PLTM) - Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald Georges is encouraging members of the public to continue to exercise caution since new COVID 19 variants are continuously being discovered.
“As of July 8, there are 24 reported active cases of COVID-19 in the Territory," Dr. Georges mentioned.
He added, “After genetic testing, BA.2 and BA.4 Omicron variants have been found to be circulating within the Virgin Islands community while the BA 2.75 variant identified in India has not been identified in the Virgin Islands.”
Dr. Georges revealed that the World Health Organization (WHO) currently categorizes B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern, while BA.4, BA.5, and various sub-lineages of BA.2 remain under monitoring status by the World Health Organization.
Dr. Georges also predicted that BA.4 and BA.5 are expected to replace existing variants in Europe and North America within the next few months or even weeks.
He indicated that the main concern relating to the new emerging variants, in particular BA.4 and BA.5, is their potential to 'escape both natural and vaccine derived immunity and lead to high numbers of infections'.
“The public is therefore urged to take appropriate precautions to prevent infection where necessary. This may include the wearing of facemasks, frequent hand hygiene, and general sanitation,” Dr. Georges cautioned.
The Ministry of Health in the Virgin Islands echoed Georges’ sentiments and has advised individuals who are experiencing symptoms or suspect that they may have contracted COVID-19, or have been exposed to the virial illness to be tested immediately to confirm their status.
According to a press release issued today July 13, “Persons who are positive for COVID-19 should self-isolate for a period of 7 days and end isolation if they test negative by rapid test or after 10 days with no test.”
It further notes that “The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to protecting and promoting the health of the people of the Virgin Islands.”
