The V.I. Health Department received reports Thursday of hospitalizations due to COVID-19 from both of the territory’s hospitals. COVID-19 is still circulating in the territory, especially now with an influx of summer visitors, according to V.I. Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion.
The Juan F. Luis Hospital on St. Croix reported three hospitalizations, with one patient on a ventilator. The Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas reported six hospitalizations, with none on ventilation, according to the press release.
“COVID-19 is still with us, and it remains a deadly virus,” said Encarnacion. “The COVID vaccine is the most effective method to prevent severe symptoms and to curb the spread of the virus. However, we must also continue to do all the things necessary to stay safe – washing and sanitizing hands often, using the inside of the elbow to cover a cough or sneeze, staying home when feeling unwell, and feel free to wear a mask for protection in public places.”