The V.I. Department of Health confirmed on Friday that three more Virgin Islanders have died of COVID-19, bringing the territory’s death toll to 60.
All three deaths were on St. Thomas. The deceased were a 61-year-old male, a 78-year-old male and a 80-year-old female. The names of the deceased were not released in accordance with department policy.
According to the Department of Health’s statistics, there have been twice as many deaths from COVID-19 on St. Thomas, 40, as on St. Croix, 18, and St. John (2) combined.
Dr. Esther Ellis, the territorial epidemiologist has said, “The vaccine is safe, and works to save lives. I am hoping that many of you who are waiting for full FDA approval take this opportunity to get vaccinated.”
“Vaccination is one of the greatest public health achievements in the 20th century, which has helped to build a society free of vaccine-preventable diseases and save millions of children and adults across the globe. The COVID-19 vaccine is one of those vaccines that is working against a preventable illness that can continue to save lives during this pandemic, and everyone has access,” Ellis said.
Since the introduction of the vaccines last winter, COVID-19 has begun to be described as a “pandemic of the unvaccinated,” since the vast majority of the new cases and almost all the serious cases and all the deaths have been among people who, for one reason or another, have chosen not to get vaccinated.
Those who want to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment can call 340-777-8227 or go online to covid19usvi.com/vaccines. Walk-ins are also accepted at the Health Department’s Community Vaccination Centers.
– St. Croix’s Community Vaccination Center is at the Nissan Center in La Grande Princesse, adjacent to the Honda Dealership and The Paint Shop, on the same side of the street as Food Town.
– On St. Thomas, the Community Vaccination Center is at the Community Health Clinic on the second floor at the Schneider Regional Medical Center.
The Health Department on Tuesday urged residents to continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask when in the company of others outside of those in their household, clean frequently used areas thoroughly, and wash their hands often with soap and warm water.
To report a suspected case of COVID-19 call 340-712-6299 or 340-776-1519. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. More information is online at covid19usvi.com. For COVID 19 updates, text COVID19USVI to 888777.
