Local News
Virgin Islands Launches Vaccination Week Amid Rising Measles Concerns
The Virgin Islands has officially launched Vaccination Week in the Americas 2025, aligning with the Pan American Health Organization’s (PAHO) regional campaign under the theme “Your Decision Makes a Difference: Immunisation for All.” The initiative, running from April 26 to May 3, aims to bolster immunization efforts across the territory.
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, emphasized the critical role of vaccines in safeguarding public health. “Vaccines protect lives, prevent illness, and help ensure that our children, families, and communities can thrive,” he stated during the launch event.
The campaign comes at a time when vaccine hesitancy and misinformation are contributing to a resurgence of measles globally. According to PAHO, the Americas have reported over 2,300 measles cases in 2025, a significant increase from the previous year. Notably, countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom have experienced substantial outbreaks, highlighting the need for sustained immunization efforts.
Minister Wheatley highlighted the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage, particularly among children, to prevent outbreaks. “Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death,” he warned.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, in collaboration with the BVI Health Services Authority and PAHO, has organized a series of activities for Vaccination Week. These include school outreach programs, medical education sessions, media engagements, and community events aimed at promoting immunization and informed decision-making.
Healthcare providers are reminded of their legal obligation under the Infectious Disease Notification Act to promptly report all suspected or confirmed notifiable diseases to the Ministry’s Public Health Unit. Timely reporting is essential for effective disease surveillance and response.
The campaign also underscores the importance of vaccinations for expectant mothers, individuals with chronic conditions, and the elderly. Vaccines such as the influenza and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) are recommended during pregnancy to protect both mothers and their newborns.