According to a statement from Health Minister Carvin Malone on Wednesday, March 4, a total of three British Virgin Islands residents were tested by the Caribbean Public Health Agency in Trinidad & Tobago and “all results were negative for the virus that causes coronavirus disease”.

“This includes a BVIslander who recently returned from an affected country and had remained quarantined at home in accordance with established protocols. No additional health information in relation to the testing of persons under investigation will be reported. However, the Ministry of Health and Social Development will continue to provide statistical updates and will alert the public immediately upon detection of the virus,” the Health Minister said.

COVID Response Team

Malone made the statement while announcing what he described as the BVI’s first Health Emergency Operations Centre team to lead the COVID-19 response.

He said the team comprises specialists from across public health under a unified leadership. Malone said Chief Medical Officer Dr Irad Potter heads the team as Incident Commander.

The minister further said the team has additional support from other agencies to help share information, coordinate with regional authorities, manage suspected cases, organise the logistical response, and “carry out other necessary response activities”.

“As the COVID-19 disease continues to spread around the world and cases are confirmed within our region, the Government remains vigilant in its monitoring and surveillance activities, public health measures, and community awareness and engagement,” Malone said.