ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada – The Grenadian Ministry of Health has issued an official statement refuting viral social media claims about an unusual disease outbreak circulating within the country. Health authorities have categorically stated that these online assertions are inconsistent with data collected through the nation’s established epidemiological surveillance systems.
The Ministry confirmed it is actively monitoring public health trends through routine surveillance but has found no evidence supporting claims of abnormal disease activity. Instead, current data indicates patterns consistent with expected seasonal variations.
Surveillance reports confirm a predictable increase in respiratory illnesses, which aligns with annual flu season trends. This seasonal uptick has been further amplified by heightened population movement during peak tourism seasons and recent Christmas holiday gatherings.
Health officials provided specific epidemiological context: During Week 42 (concluding October 18, 2024), Grenada experienced an expected spike in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases, primarily affecting children across multiple school communities. Meanwhile, COVID-19 positivity rates remain consistently low, indicating minimal community transmission of the virus.
The Ministry also addressed reports of flu-like symptoms within the tourism sector, confirming these cases reflect broader seasonal respiratory trends rather than unusual outbreaks. No evidence of COVID-19 clusters has been identified. Monitoring has also detected gastroenteritis activity at intervention threshold levels, representing an increase that remains within anticipated seasonal parameters.
The statement emphasized that all public health data undergoes rigorous collection, analysis, and interpretation by qualified professionals before release. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency and evidence-based public health action, encouraging citizens to rely exclusively on official communications for accurate information and to continue practicing recommended preventive health measures.