Thank you for your prompt responses as we continue to gather and disseminate information on the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. We have compiled useful links from reliable resources below and also have linked all of our most recent email updates. If you would like to add any additional email addresses to receive our COVID-19 updates, please send to
kaufmann.laurel@gmail.com. Our updates are sent via Constant Contact, so please remember to stay opted in to our emails so you can receive all future communications.
COVID-19 Updates
Please click the links below to read all of our recent updates as well as updates from a variety of sources including the Government of the Virgin Islands and other public sector departments and regional stakeholders. Keep in mind that statistics are changing daily as we learn more, so some of the information from our first few updates may no longer be relevant. Remember to only read and share information from reliable sources. You can also visit
doh.vi.gov/covid19usvi for more information. To receive updates, alerts and notifications on COVID-19 in the USVI, TEXT “COVID19USVI” to 888777. If you suspect you have symptoms or if you have questions, please call the Health Department’s Epidemiology Division Hotline: 340-712-6299 (STX) and 340-776-1519 (STT & STJ).
Due to the restriction on large gatherings, USVIHTA is postponing our Annual General Meeting on April 7 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. We apologize for any inconvenience and will notify members when we’re able to reschedule.
President Trump Directs FEMA Support Under Emergency Declaration for COVID-19
On March 13, President Trump declared the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic an emergency declaration pursuant to section 501 (b) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. This declaration increases federal support to the Department of Health and Human Services in its role as the lead federal agency for the ongoing COVID-19 response. The declaration allows for state, territorial, tribal and local government entities and certain private non-profit organizations to be eligible to apply for Public Assistance. Read more.
Prepare for the Toxic Sunscreen Ban April 1
Be prepared for the upcoming toxic sunscreen ban which will take effect April 1, 2020. Act 8185, supported by the hotel and tourism association, amends Virgin Islands code by adding a section banning the retail sale or offer for sale, and the distribution or importation for retail purposes, of topical sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Click here to read the full legislation and please take steps to be ready on April 1.
