Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Carvin Malone said the ban is in light of the prevalence of the new strain of the COVID-19 – SARS-CoV2, that is spreading rapidly and prompting high levels of concern in the neighbouring countries.

Nonetheless, Hon. Malone added that persons who are nationals, belongers, residents, work permit holders, persons permitted to reside in the territory, diplomats, and persons employed by government and statutory bodies and agencies would be excluded from the ban.

Hon. Malone also mentioned that there would now be a 14-day quarantine for persons permitted to enter from the motherland, and they would be tested when they arrive, seven days later and on the 14th day.

Curfew Remains

In the same breath, Hon. Malone said the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands decided to extend the current curfew for another 15 days.

He said the Cabinet instructed the Attorney General to tweak Section 10 of the Public Health Order 2020.

“In terms of the public health order which will expire.... will be extended until 15 January,” he pointed out, adding that it would be reviewed at the end of the new curfew period.