The Central Board of Health (CBH) in Antigua and Barbuda is grappling with a severe shortage of trained and certified health officers, with only six staff members currently handling responsibilities that typically require a team of at least 35. This staffing crisis has raised concerns about the nation’s ability to maintain essential public health services, including food safety, sanitation, vector control, and disease surveillance. Maurice Merchant, Director of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, praised the small team for their “miraculous work” despite the limited resources. However, the lack of certified personnel has hindered the CBH’s operational capacity, leaving many trainees unable to assume full responsibilities. To address this critical gap, the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) is set to launch specialized training and certification programmes aimed at equipping health officers with the skills needed to meet regional and international standards. Officials emphasize that this initiative is crucial for strengthening the CBH’s ability to safeguard public health, particularly as the government advances its efforts to modernize the nation’s public health systems. The move is expected to enhance sanitation and disease control measures across the country, ensuring a healthier and safer environment for all citizens.
