Partial Lockdown at D. Orlando Smith Hospital
The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has implemented a partial lockdown at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, activating visitor screening protocols and security checks for everyone entering the facility. Members of the public are asked to cooperate with staff, allow extra time for arrival, and follow directions from security and designated personnel to help maintain safety.
The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has announced a partial lockdown at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, putting visitor screening protocols in effect for all persons entering the facility. Under the temporary measures, security officers and designated hospital personnel will screen visitors on arrival.
The checks are precautionary and intended to protect patients, staff and other visitors while the hospital maintains essential services. BVIHSA has not released detailed operational changes to visiting hours or clinical services, but said the measures are being carried out to ensure a safe environment within the hospital.
Residents are asked to cooperate with security staff and to allow extra time when coming to the facility to permit screening procedures. The hospital is the Territory’s primary public medical facility, and any changes to access can affect patients needing routine or emergency care.
BVIHSA emphasised that clinical care and emergency services remain priorities; however, people planning non-urgent visits should consider calling ahead or postponing if possible to reduce congestion at entry points. Those entering the hospital should expect to be stopped by security or screening staff and comply with instructions.
While BVIHSA did not specify the precise nature of the checks, they will be administered by authorised personnel as part of the partial lockdown protocol. The authority thanked the public for their understanding and patience while the measures are in place. Local residents who rely on hospital outpatient appointments, visiting patients, or attending to loved ones should budget extra time for arrival and follow any signage or staff directions on site.
Community members concerned about access to care or seeking updates are encouraged to contact BVIHSA through its usual channels for the latest information. BVIHSA reiterated that the partial lockdown is a precautionary step aimed at maintaining safety and continuity of care. The public is urged to remain calm, cooperate with hospital staff, and check official BVIHSA communications for further updates as the situation evolves.
Primary source: VINO