Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Andrew Fahie told the media last evening, March 17 that the travel restricts will not apply to flight crews, diplomats or freight, cargo or courier craft or vessels.

"Cabinet has endorsed that entry into the British Virgin Islands by sea or air be prohibited with effect from Thursday, 19th March, 2020 for all passengers, who are not nationals, Belongers, Work Permit Holders or persons ordinarily resident in the Territory, or their dependents," the Premier outlined.

The BVIAA has announced that it is taking precautionary measures when it comes to Covid-19.

"We have erected a tent to isolate passengers in the event that there is a suspected case of the virus presented at the airport. Procedures are in place to ensure the public and employees of the Airports Authority and other agencies are kept safe," the BVIAA stated.

Last week alone, the Territory tested 15 persons and all results were negative.

"As of this time, there have been no confirmed cases of the virus in the BVI. We thank God for his continued favour. However, our mission as your Government, as I am sure it is the mission of every person in this Territory, is to keep us all healthy and safe," Premier Fahie stated.

He stated that the safety and wellbeing of the Virgin Islands people and residents are Government's highest priority as they continue to monitor regional and international developments with respect to the coronavirus, and to implement precautionary measures to prevent the virus from getting across our borders.

"As you are aware, your Government has put measures in place so that the BVI has the capabilities to test for the virus. This allows us to get quicker access to test results so that we can be more proactive," the Premier stated.