COVID-19 From A Crucian Prospective

The world Is a very different place since the arrival of COVID -19. We now use terms like “social distancing”, standing 6 feet apart, wearing your mask, COVID test. St. Croix like the rest of the world was not spared this tragedy. We have been doing great to keep the infection numbers down. So far between all three islands, we’ve lost 23 lives to the virus including 3 members of one family, but it could be worse. The virus should be taken seriously and everyone should do their part to help protect their friends, family, loved ones, and the economy of the VI. The lower the number of infections, the better the outcome will be for our people and the economy (which greatly depends on tourism).

It has been difficult especially during the Christmas & Festival Season when relatives fly home and the tourists and snowbirds come down to enjoy the warmer climate. You are required to take a COVID test and register in our Traveler Screening Portal before you arrive on the island. All of our Pre-Christmas Festivals & Parades (Coquito, LeChon, Jouvert, etc.) have been canceled or gone virtual.

December 1, 2020

We still have our beautiful beaches which are closed at 4:00 on weekends and holidays. Alcohol is no longer permitted at beach gatherings. There are still many open-air restaurants that are at half capacity or only doing take-out as a precaution. We have enforced the “No Mask, No Service” rule on the island so in every establishment both workers and patrons are required to wear a mask. Life has changed for us in this community. Gone are the hugs and handshakes in greeting family and acquaintances. Gone are the big family beach gatherings with live music. Gone is the Festival Village where you run into old friends and meet new ones. Change is inevitable, words that seem unbearable at times. This too shall pass!

Below are some website links you may want to consider for additional information on COVID.

In addition, the U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Screening Portal screens travelers prior to arrival in the Virgin Islands. The coordinated efforts of the Office of the Governor, the Department of Health, the Virgin Islands Port Authority, and the Department of Tourism have made vital information available to help to prevent the spread of COVID. Please visit the USVI COVID-19 Traveler Screening Portal website when making travel plans.

Orange mask created by: www.thetownhaberdashery.com

Madras Mask created by: Zulema Llanos- Llanos13@yahoo.com