This is according to Health Minister Carvin Malone who said the total number of active cases is now up to 77 persons.

“The current spread of cases is three on Anegada, 68 on Tortola, and six on Virgin Gorda. Twenty-seven cases were diagnosed on travel screening, 33 local cases, and 15 contact cases,” the Minister said in his address to the House of Assembly today.

Malone also publicly addressed the latest COVID-19 related death reported on December 10.

He said that while the death, which is the 39th such fatality since the start of the pandemic, occurred in a person who was COVID-19 positive, it is yet to be determined the specific role COVID-19 played. That assessment is still ongoing he stated.

Christmas and COVID

The Health Minister also said he is aware that the upcoming festive season and the returning of the cruise ships meant a number of COVID-19 related restrictions have been relaxed and a number of tourism-related activities continue in the territory.

“The government has clearly recognised the need to balance lives and livelihood. As the territory and the world continue in the second year of the COVID pandemic, 21 months to be specific, it is imperative that we find ways to live and function with COVID-19,” the minister added.

Malone said, if all goes well, the territory is expected to receive additional doses of the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccine on Wednesday, December, 15.

He said the Pfizer doses will also be available for those who require a booster shot.

Malone said his ministry will prioritise the elderly (residents 65-years and older), those who are immunocompromised, children between the ages of 12-18, and frontline workers for the Pfizer vaccine.