VIDOH Urges Caution Amid Uptick in COVID-19 Cases

September 4, 2025

The Virgin Islands Health Department is advising residents to take precautions following a recent slight uptick in COVID-19 cases in the territory, a trend also being observed on the U.S. mainland, the department reported in a press release.

“We want to remind everyone that COVID-19 remains a concern in our community,” said Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion. “It is especially important that we protect our most vulnerable, including the elderly and those who are immunocompromised. Simple actions — such as staying at home when sick, practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing a mask when appropriate — can help prevent the spread of illness.”

Isolation Guidance

The department reminded the public of the current guidelines:

Individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should isolate.
Regular activities may resume once symptoms improve and the person is fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medicine.
Isolation requires staying home from work and away from other household members, especially young children and immunocompromised individuals.
A full five-day isolation is not mandatory. Depending on symptoms, some people may resume activities earlier, while others may need longer.
After resuming activities, individuals are strongly encouraged to continue precautions for the next five days, including good hand hygiene, wearing a mask, limiting close contact, and improving indoor ventilation.
If symptoms return, the individual should isolate again until symptoms improve and they are fever-free for 24 hours without medication.

“Following these additional guidelines is especially important because individuals may still be able to spread the virus even if they are feeling better,” Encarnacion said. “Some people, such as those with immunocompromising conditions, can spread the virus for a longer period of time.”