US Virgin Islands: Authorities likely to maintain COVID-19 restrictions until at least late January /update 12

US Virgin Islands likely to keep current COVID-19-related restrictions in place until at least late January. Disruptions to persist.

Event

Authorities in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) will likely keep current business and travel restrictions in place until at least late January as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Domestic Measures
Existing measures represent the third level in the territory's five-level scale ranging from "Total Quarantine" to "New Normal." The restrictions are as follows:

The wearing of facemasks is mandatory in all public spaces.
Bars and restaurants are open for sit-in services subject to strict operating protocols and physical distancing requirements.
All gatherings are limited to 50-percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is less, for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Places of worship may offer services at 50-percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is less.
All beaches will close by 1600 on weekends and holidays; officials will make an exemption for persons engaged in fishing.
All approved businesses and facilities are required to ensure that customers maintain a distance of 1.8 meters (6 feet) from one another.

International Travel Requirements
The territory reopened to all leisure travel in September. Every traveler aged five and over entering the USVI must use the online Traveler Screening Portal to upload a negative COVID-19 test taken up to five days before arrival or be subject to a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine. Travelers will be subject to mandatory temperature testing upon arrival, and may be subjected to additional health screenings upon arrival. All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Confirm appointments. Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.