With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Ministry of Health and Social Development has raised concerns over a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across the Territory, urging residents to take precautions, get tested, and “love safely.”

Public Health Officer Renee Leonard highlighted the importance of awareness and prevention amid the increase in STI cases. “Our goal is to educate the public on what is happening and how they can protect themselves,” Leonard said.

The Ministry is using the occasion to reinforce its “wrap it up” message, promoting safe sexual practices. “Valentine’s Day is widely recognised as a ‘day of love’, making it an ideal time to highlight the importance of responsible choices,” Leonard added.

As part of a week-long public awareness initiative, the Ministry of Health has partnered with local medical providers, Eureka Medical and Sapphire Health, to encourage testing. Special Valentine’s Day offers will be available for those wishing to check their sexual health status.

“We appreciate our partners for supporting this important initiative,” Leonard said. “Knowing your status is key to reducing the spread of STIs in the Virgin Islands.”

She also urged residents to take responsibility for their sexual health by practising safe behaviours. “Be faithful to one partner, use barrier contraceptives, stay informed, and take ownership of your well-being. Valentine’s Day should be a celebration of love, but it is equally important to make informed and responsible choices.”

The initiative will also include a special February edition of the Ministry of Health’s newsletter, providing vital information about STIs. Additional resources such as brochures, flyers, radio advertisements, and a GIS radio report will be shared throughout the week.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving public health and safeguarding the well-being of the Virgin Islands community.

Dr. Stephanie Vanterpool, a distinguished pain management expert from the British Virgin Islands, has unveiled her latest project—a documentary aimed at reshaping how we approach chronic pain. The film, Targeted Pain Treatment – Hope for Patients with Pain, premiered on East Tennessee PBS on January 8, 2025. As executive producer, Dr. Vanterpool is featured prominently alongside patients whose lives have been dramatically transformed by targeted pain treatments.

The documentary delves into groundbreaking, patient-centered pain management techniques that are offering real hope to individuals battling chronic pain. By focusing on the root causes of pain rather than merely alleviating symptoms, the film presents a fresh perspective on a condition that affects millions. Personal stories from patients who have undergone these innovative treatments provide a deeply human element, illustrating the profound impact on quality of life.

Dr. Vanterpool, who serves as the medical director of the University Center for Pain Management in Knoxville, Tennessee, as well as an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, expressed her enthusiasm for sharing this film with a wider audience. “As a proud native of the British Virgin Islands, I hope this documentary resonates with people locally, as well as those around the world, who may benefit from these transformative pain treatments,” she said.

The full documentary is now available for on-demand streaming, allowing viewers to explore the cutting-edge techniques showcased at their convenience.

https://www.pbs.org/video/targeted-pain-treatment-hope-for-patients-with-pain-pdtmd6/

For further details or media inquiries, Dr. Vanterpool is available for interviews. Journalists can reach out to Mrs. Angela Williams, Clinic Manager at the Bougainvillea Clinic, for scheduling.

About Dr. Stephanie Vanterpool Dr. Vanterpool is an esteemed pain management consultant at the Bougainvillea Clinic in Tortola, BVI, and the medical director at the University Center for Pain Management in Knoxville, Tennessee. She is an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, specializing in targeted treatments for chronic pain. As executive producer of Targeted Pain Treatment – Hope for Patients with Pain, she continues to be a leading voice in advancing the future of pain care.

About Bougainvillea Clinic The Bougainvillea Clinic is a multispecialty outpatient clinic and surgery center in the British Virgin Islands, offering advanced medical services with a focus on comprehensive, patient-centered care. The clinic is a recognised leader in pain management treatments throughout the Caribbean region. For more information, visit www.bougainvilleaclinic.com.

The British Virgin Islands Red Cross, in partnership with Harneys, will host its Biennial Men’s Health Fair and Prostate Cancer Screening, aiming to provide essential health services and promote early detection of prostate cancer.

The free initiative will take place on Virgin Gorda on February 1, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Catholic Community Centre. On Tortola, the event will span two days, February 7 and 8, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Multipurpose Sports Complex.

Prostate cancer remains a significant health concern for men worldwide, with early detection playing a critical role in improving treatment outcomes. Recognising this, the BVI Red Cross, supported by Harneys, seeks to ensure men across the territory have access to free screenings and health information.

“This initiative emphasises the importance of early detection and preventative care,” said the Director of BVI Red Cross, Stacy Lloyd. “We are committed to creating opportunities for men to prioritise their health and access vital resources.”

In addition to prostate cancer screenings, the event will include a variety of health services and educational sessions on topics such as nutrition, mental health, and preventative care strategies. Local health professionals will be present to provide guidance and answer questions.

Organisers encourage men of all ages to attend the health fair and take advantage of the free screenings and consultations.