The island of St. John has long been an oasis of relaxation, rest and fun for travelers from across the globe. It’s stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife and turquoise waves lapping white sandy shorelines make it an appealing place to come and experience for oneself. However, along with the rest of the world, the U.S. Virgin Islands are facing the reality of the spread of COVID-19 in St. John, and in light of this illness are putting strict measures into place to protect those who call the islands home as well as those who are vulnerable through its potential transmission.
Area Specific Guidelines for the Islands
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has recently extended the U.S. Virgin Islands’ State of Emergency through April 30, 2020, with stay-at-home orders and business closure guidelines in effect until that time. Currently, restaurants on the islands are required to provide pick-up orders only in order to help slow the spread of the virus through person to person contact. Residents of St. John and the surrounding islands have been advised to stay at home unless leaving for essential reasons such as food pick-ups or pharmacy needs. Gas stations and convenience stores have been advised to limit social gatherings across the islands.
General Recommendations to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
There are several steps to helping prevent the spread of COVID-19 that residents of St. John can take. Staying home and keeping away from those that are vulnerable to the spread of illness such as adults 65 and older, those with underlying conditions or compromised immune systems and those that work in the medical field are good routes to help prevent contact-driven transmission of the disease. Washing your hands regularly is highly important during this unprecedented time, making sure to scrub with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds after traveling outdoors, coughing or sneezing. Hand sanitizer is an appropriate alternative to handwashing when soap isn’t readily available. If you believe you may be showing symptoms of the disease, be sure to contact your physician virtually rather than stopping into the office and wear a face mask when close to others. Maintaining a distance of 6 feet from other individuals is advisable to stop the spread of COVID-19 in St. John.
Just as important as taking steps to keep physically healthy during this time is taking steps to maintain mental health. Setting aside time to eat well, sleep well and enjoy calming activities such as meditation is a great way to keep balance throughout a pandemic experience.
Looking Forward
St. John has always been a place that’s welcomed guests with arms wide open. The team at Cimmaron St. John is continuously committed to providing future travelers with exceptional experiences while they’re here. We can’t wait to welcome you back when the world is healthy once more!
