The Ministry of Health and Social Development is monitoring an outbreak of hantavirus linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius that has resulted in several confirmed cases and three deaths, but Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, and Dr. Ronald Georges, Chief Medical Officer, said Monday that the risk to the Virgin Islands remains low.

The ministry said the reported cases involve passengers and crew aboard the Dutch expedition vessel, which was operating outside the Caribbean region. Health officials said there is no evidence of any cases in the Virgin Islands or elsewhere in the Caribbean.

Honourable Wheatley said the ministry is working with regional and international partners, including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), to monitor the situation and strengthen surveillance systems.

“At this time, the risk to the Caribbean, including the Virgin Islands, is considered low,” Dr. Georges said. “We are utilizing enhanced surveillance systems and maintaining routine port health inspections and preparedness protocols to ensure the continued protection of public health.”

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially serious disease that is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine or saliva. Human-to-human transmission is extremely uncommon.

The ministry said the rodent species typically associated with the virus are not commonly found in Caribbean environments, further reducing the likelihood of local transmission.

Residents are advised to avoid contact with rodents and areas where they may be present, safely clean and disinfect areas contaminated by rodent waste, maintain proper sanitation and waste disposal, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever or respiratory distress.

Early symptoms of hantavirus can resemble the flu but may progress to more serious respiratory complications if not treated promptly.

“We will continue to work closely with regional and international partners to ensure that any potential risks are identified early and managed effectively,” Dr. Georges said. “Protecting the health and safety of our residents remains our top priority.”

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The announcement follows a January update in which BVIHSA disclosed that technical challenges had delayed the air-conditioning project beyond its original timeline. At the time, the Authority indicated that once installation was complete, the facility would undergo deep cleaning and an initial air-quality assessment before services could safely resume.

According to Tuesday’s release, those phases have now been successfully finalized.

The Authority said that after completing the installation, the clinic underwent a thorough deep cleaning along with the required air-quality testing to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. With those measures complete, the transition back to the permanent facility will begin on Wednesday, February 18, and is expected to be finalized within three days.

Residents are being advised that there may be brief service interruptions during the relocation process. Pharmacy services in particular could experience temporary delays as equipment and supplies are repositioned and systems are fully restored.

BVIHSA also previously noted that a one-month follow-up air-quality assessment will be conducted after services resume, though this will not impact the reopening or ongoing operations of the clinic.

The reopening marks another step toward stabilizing operations at the Virgin Gorda healthcare facility, which has experienced multiple service disruptions and temporary relocations in recent years due to infrastructure challenges involving air-conditioning and electrical systems. In 2024, services were moved to a temporary location to ensure continuity of care while repairs and assessments were undertaken.

The clinic, officially opened in February 2020 at a cost of approximately $7 million, serves as Virgin Gorda’s primary public healthcare facility and was designed to deliver modern, climate-controlled medical services to residents.

BVIHSA has apologized for any inconvenience caused during the transition period and expressed appreciation to the Virgin Gorda community for its continued patience and cooperation. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and fully operational healthcare environment for residents and visitors alike.

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Romney, a mother of a 6-year-old son, Jevonni, was first admitted to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Aug. 22, before being airlifted to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where doctors said a transplant is her only chance of survival.

Her family said the estimated cost of surgery and post-operative care could range from $80,000 to $100,000, including three months of hospital recovery and aftercare in Puerto Rico, frequent follow-up visits there over the next three years, and medication to prevent organ rejection.

“We are rallying around Letisha with love, prayers and support, but the financial burden far exceeds what we can carry alone,” the family said in a public appeal.

They are asking for donations of any amount to help pay for the transplant, travel and accommodation for medical follow-ups, and ongoing treatment. The family also urged the public to share her story to increase awareness and support.

Romney’s relatives said she is a devoted mother and a family-oriented young woman who enjoys cooking, caring for children and spending time with her son. “With your support, we can give her the chance to recover, to watch her son grow and thrive, and to live the life she deserves,” the family said.

Donations will go directly toward Romney’s medical expenses and post-operative care, according to her relatives.

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Recaudación de fondos de Lisa Romney: Help Letisha Receive a Life-Saving Liver Transplant

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The closure will last one business day, with normal operations scheduled to resume on Sept. 22, according to Damion Grange, marketing and communications manager at BVIHSA.

BVIHSA officials said the temporary measure is intended to ensure accurate inventory management, which they described as critical to forecasting and maintaining a reliable supply of medications.

“We encourage patients with ongoing or urgent medication needs to plan accordingly and make necessary arrangements in advance,” BVIHSA said in a statement.

The authority apologised for any inconvenience caused by the closure and directed patients seeking additional information to contact the pharmacy team at 284-852-7556/7659 or by WhatsApp at 284-440-1726.

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Minister for Health and Social Development, the Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating, “Men’s Health Week is more than a campaign—it’s a call to action. We must keep encouraging our men to prioritise their health, speak up when they need support, and take full advantage of preventative screenings. These events help create a culture where wellness is normalized and supported at every level of society”

This year’s observance, led by the Office of Gender Affairs, operated under the theme “Strong Minds, Strong Bodies – Navigating Men’s Health from Crisis to Recovery,” highlighting the importance of early intervention and holistic care

Earlier in the week, participants took part in a street workout session led by fitness trainer Esau Andrews, designed to foster physical activity and community connection. A panel discussion featuring psychologist Dr. Michael Turnbull, fitness advocate Mackenzie Baltimore, medical doctor Dr. Chrisel Bovell‑Chichester and Financial Secretary Jeremiah Frett addressed a range of issues, including mental resilience, the value of preventative care and reducing stigma around illness

Complementing these efforts was a clothing drive, with donated items distributed to the Family Support Network, alongside food basket contributions to the Social Development Department for distribution among men in need. Social media campaigns shared personal testimonies from across the Territory, providing insight into individual health struggles and recovery, and emphasizing shared support.

The closing hike and beach event emphasized the therapeutic benefits of nature, rest and reflection as integral components of a healthy lifestyle. The Office of Gender Affairs expressed gratitude to all who contributed, extending thanks to partners, facilitators and participants for their involvement

The Ministry of Health and Social Development reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to enhancing the health and social welfare of men in the Virgin Islands, urging the public to continue backing initiatives that uplift and empower men throughout the Territory.

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This significant update to the Centenarian Grant, which doubles the previous amount of $5,000, reflects the Territory’s commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of its senior citizens. The grant increase was recently approved by the Cabinet as part of broader efforts to support the aging population.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, praised Mrs. Turnbull-Stoutt for reaching this remarkable milestone, emphasizing the impact of her life and the legacy of her generation.

“Mrs. Turnbull-Stoutt, like many of our centenarians, has played a vital role in shaping the Virgin Islands through her wisdom, hard work, and unwavering commitment to community and family,” Minister Wheatley said.

He further commended the Social Development Department for its efforts to honor seniors, adding, “As people live longer, it is essential that they also live better — with dignity, a sense of purpose, and the full support of their families and communities.”

The Virgin Islands is currently home to seven other centenarians:

• Mrs. Enelle Smith, 106 years

• Mrs. Emogene Creque, 105 years

• Mrs. Betty Yates, 103 years

• Mrs. Floresa George, 102 years

• Mr. Evelyn Hodge, 101 years

• Mrs. Iris Harrigan, 101 years

• Mrs. Christeen Hodge, 101 years

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains dedicated to improving the well-being of seniors and ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve for their lifelong contributions to the Territory.

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Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Henrietta Alexander, has warned that contagious diseases such as influenza, the common cold, chickenpox, and hand, foot, and mouth disease tend to peak between November and March, posing a heightened risk in nurseries where young children are in close contact.

“Many of these illnesses spread through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing,” Ms Alexander said. “Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent transmission.”

Authorities are advising nurseries to ensure frequent handwashing among staff and children, particularly before meals, after using the toilet, and after handling shared toys or objects. They are also stressing the importance of regular cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, including tables, door handles, and bathroom facilities. Additionally, parents are being urged to keep unwell children at home until they have fully recovered.

The Environmental Health Division has pledged to continue providing guidance and support to early childhood facilities, helping to implement hygiene and sanitation measures aimed at reducing potential outbreaks.

For further information or assistance, individuals are encouraged to contact the Environmental Health Division at 468-5110.

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The U.S. administration’s 90-day suspension of foreign assistance, initiated by President Donald Trump as part of an “America First” policy, has disrupted numerous global health initiatives. This pause affects programs funded by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a cornerstone in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

Byanyima stressed the gravity of the situation, stating that without U.S. support, projections indicate a significant surge in HIV cases and related fatalities. She urged the U.S. government to reconsider its stance, highlighting the potential global health crisis that could ensue.

The aid freeze has already led to the closure of several organisations reliant on PEPFAR funding, particularly in Africa. The United Nations AIDS program reported that many such entities have ceased operations due to the funding halt and a lack of clarity regarding exemptions.

In response to the suspension, advocacy groups have taken legal action against the administration. Public Citizen, a liberal-leaning organization, filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of the aid freeze, arguing that it endangers lives worldwide. The lawsuit represents organisations severely impacted by the funding halt, including those providing healthcare and humanitarian assistance.

The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has defended the pause, asserting that it is necessary to review foreign aid spending in alignment with the administration’s policies. However, critics warn that this move could damage the U.S.’s reliability as a global partner and potentially push aid-receiving countries towards rivals like China.

The situation remains fluid, with global health experts and humanitarian organisations closely monitoring the developments. The potential resurgence of HIV/AIDS underscores the critical importance of sustained international support and the far-reaching consequences of policy decisions on global health initiatives.

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