The 2020 USVI Census, well underway before the virulent coronavirus shocked the world into a scramble to contain it, has suspended operations until at least April 6, according to a release the Census issued late Friday.
"As a precaution in light of the coronavirus pandemic and following the guidance of the Virgin Islands government and public health authorities, Census 2020 US Virgin Islands census takers have ceased door-to-door visits through April 6th," the Census said.
Census field workers will continue to list housing addresses on St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, but will have no person-to-person contact with residents. No Census workers will visit homes during this time, according to the release.
Non-essential Census 2020 office workers are being asked not to report to work, to limit the number of employees in the offices.
This workforce modification will be in effect until April 6th, when a full review of Census 2020 US Virgin Islands operations will be conducted, the release said.
The move comes as the local government has ordered the curtailing of activities, including limiting gatherings to 10 people, among other measures.
Late Friday, the government announced three additional confirmed cases, brining the territory's total to six. Among the new cases was the first case of community spread.
“Although community spread now isn’t surprising, this new development marks a turning point in this pandemic, and we have to remain vigilant to the social distancing guidelines provided and all do our part to protect the most vulnerable of our population” said Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion.
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