CHARLOTTE AMALIE — The University of the Virgin Islands’ director of the Center for Student Success has died of the coronavirus while on the U.S. mainland, according to a message issued to the UVI community on Wednesday.
“We learned today that Jason Brewer, Director of the Center for Student Success, who had been in Kentucky since March 24th passed away from COVID-19. I have been in contact with the Department of Health about this case and under their guidance I provide the following information,” UVI President David Hall said.
Hall urged students who were in contact with Brewer after March 18 and prior to his departure off island on March 23, and have coronavirus symptoms (dry cough and fever), to call 340-712-6299 or 340-776-1519 to get tested.
“If you had contact with him within this period and are not experiencing any symptoms then there is no need at this point to be tested,” Hall said. “We will continue to monitor this situation and continue to keep you informed.”
Students and faculty were shocked at the news of Brewer’s death.
“Jason’s passing is an extremely sad moment for this community,” Hall said. “This additional information makes it even more challenging for all of us. May his passing serve as a sobering reminder of the enormous impact of this pandemic which we now confront, and may it also compel us to be even more vigilant in caring for ourselves and those around us.”
UVI included Virgin Islands Department of Health’s general guidelines to help stop the spread of the virus:
- Limit socializing and close contact with others, as persons without symptoms can still transmit the virus.
- While sick, avoid contact with others.
- Avoid persons with cold or flu-like symptoms.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and discard the tissue. Wash your hands immediately. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60 percent alcohol