Health Department gives health, safety message for Agriculture weekend

The Virgin Islands Department of Health reminded residents and visitors to take precautions to protect their health during the 53rd Annual Agriculture and Food Fair weekend.

“We are still in flu season, and right now we are actually in the peak of the season. As travelers return home and as the territory prepares for an influx of visitors this week, I am encouraging you to be proactive in protecting you and your loved ones against the flu,” said VI Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion during the Government House Press Briefing held today. “Seasonal flu activity remains elevated across most of the US, and we are seeing an increase in the number of cases in the USVI.”

Here’s how to reduce the risk of infection:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are unavailable.

Maintain a safe distance from individuals exhibiting symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or fever.

If you or your family members are feeling unwell, please remain at home to prevent the spreading of illness to others.

Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces.

Get the flu vaccination.

The flu vaccine is available at the department’s Community Health clinics located at:

The former Caribe Home Center at Castle Coakley, 2nd Floor, St. Croix. Call 340-712-0131 for more information at the rear entrance of the Roy L. Schneider Hospital, next to the Emergency Room, on St. Thomas. The St. Thomas clinic can be reached at 340-774-7747 and at the Morris F. deCastro Clinic at Cruz Bay in St. John. The St. John clinic can be reached at 340-776-6400.

The Department of Health will once again be at the fairgrounds to provide fairgoers with blood pressure and glucose checks. The department is also providing handwashing stations throughout the fair.