In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s health authorities have ramped up measures to prevent the spread of water-borne illnesses and other health hazards. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton emphasized the critical need to manage dead livestock and contaminated food products, which can rapidly lead to disease outbreaks, foul odors, and water source contamination if not handled properly. Speaking at a webinar titled ‘Let’s talk recovery: Protecting against food and water-borne illnesses after a disaster,’ Tufton detailed the ministry’s collaboration with the veterinary public health unit, the Ministry of Agriculture, and local public health inspectors to remove, bury, or destroy animal carcasses and related waste in accordance with strict national and international standards. Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, struck western Jamaica on October 28, causing widespread displacement and the deaths of numerous animals, whose remains now pose a significant public health risk. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie highlighted several post-hurricane factors exacerbating health issues, including power loss, compromised water and food supplies, solid waste accumulation, and overcrowding in shelters. These conditions increase the likelihood of infections and diseases, including food, water-borne, vector-borne, and air-borne illnesses. The hurricane has also severely impacted health facilities across the island, with many hospitals and clinics either partially operational or completely out of service. Efforts are underway to restore healthcare services, including the establishment of field hospitals to address the immediate needs of affected communities.
作者： admin
-
Tufton sounds alarm
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which devastated five parishes in western Jamaica, Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has issued a stark warning about the escalating health risks posed by environmental diseases. Speaking at a meeting with public health workers in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, Tufton emphasized that water-borne and food-related illnesses now represent the most significant threat to residents in the affected areas. The Category 5 hurricane, which struck on October 28, left widespread destruction, including power outages, limited access to clean water, and disrupted communication networks. Tufton highlighted that while immediate post-storm threats like mosquitoes and dead animals were minimal, the current risks include diseases such as leptospirosis and gastroenteritis, which can lead to severe health complications or even death. He urged health workers to remain vigilant and proactive in managing these risks over the next six weeks to two months. The minister also acknowledged logistical challenges, such as blocked roads and limited telecommunication services, and encouraged the use of innovative methods like town criers to disseminate health information. Additionally, he praised the efforts of local health departments, which are equipped with hand-held foggers and receiving support from other regions and institutions like the University of Technology, Jamaica. With approximately 3,000 health workers deployed across the country, the ministry is intensifying its vector control programs to mitigate the health crisis.
-
Slow batting hurts West Indies in first ODI against New Zealand
In a nail-biting encounter at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand clinched a narrow seven-run victory against the West Indies in the first One-Day International on November 16. The hero of the match, Daryl Mitchell, delivered a masterful century, scoring 119 runs off 118 balls, which proved decisive in setting a competitive total of 269/7 for the hosts. Mitchell’s innings, coupled with a disciplined bowling effort, ensured New Zealand emerged victorious despite a spirited fightback from the West Indies. The visitors, led by Sherfane Rutherford’s valiant 55, fell just short, finishing at 262/6 in their allotted 50 overs. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing moments of brilliance and missed opportunities. New Zealand’s ability to capitalize on key moments, particularly in the final overs, underscored their resilience and tactical acumen. The West Indies, despite their loss, displayed glimpses of their potential, setting the stage for an intriguing second ODI scheduled for November 18.
-
Operation Trident leads to arrests, ganja seized
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has hailed its recent Operation Trident as a resounding success, following a series of coordinated anti-crime efforts in the Southern Division over the weekend. The operation, which spanned Saturday and Sunday, led to multiple arrests, the seizure of illegal drugs, and the recovery of a firearm.
-
US names Maduro headof Cartel de los Soles
The United States Department of State has announced its intention to designate Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), effective November 24. The announcement, made on November 16 by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accuses the cartel of being based in Venezuela and led by President Nicolás Maduro. The statement further alleges that high-ranking officials within Maduro’s regime are involved in the cartel, which has allegedly corrupted Venezuela’s military, intelligence, legislature, and judiciary. The US government asserts that neither Maduro nor his associates represent Venezuela’s legitimate government. The release also claims that Cartel de los Soles, alongside other designated FTOs such as Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel, is responsible for terrorist violence across the hemisphere and drug trafficking into the United States and Europe. The US vows to utilize all available tools to safeguard national security interests and disrupt funding to narco-terrorists. The designation was made under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and will take effect upon publication in the Federal Register. This move follows recent debates among US politicians regarding the legality of President Trump’s military strikes on alleged narco-terrorist boats in the southern Caribbean Sea, which resulted in numerous casualties.
-
US Announces that Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Enters Caribbean Sea
The Caribbean Sea witnessed a significant military presence on November 16, 2025, as the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, spearheaded by the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the world’s largest aircraft carrier, navigated through the Anegada Passage and entered the region. This deployment, under the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), follows directives from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism, aligning with the President’s priorities to safeguard the Homeland. Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of SOUTHCOM, emphasized the group’s readiness to combat transnational threats, stating, ‘The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group’s deployment reinforces our resolve to protect the security of the Western Hemisphere and the safety of the American Homeland.’ The strike group will join the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and other joint forces as part of Joint Task Force Southern Spear, a mission designed to dismantle criminal networks exploiting shared borders and maritime domains. Rear Admiral Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group 12, highlighted the USS Gerald R. Ford’s capabilities as ‘the most capable, adaptable, and lethal platform in the world,’ ensuring its deployment where and when it matters most. With over 4,000 Sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft, the carrier enhances the U.S. military’s ability to project power through sustained operations. The strike group’s deployment began on June 24, 2025, with operations in the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Circle, and Mediterranean Sea, including participation in NATO’s Neptune Strike 25-2 and 25-3 exercises. The group’s arrival in the Caribbean follows a transoceanic voyage through the Strait of Gibraltar. Accompanying the USS Gerald R. Ford are Carrier Air Wing Eight, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Bainbridge and USS Mahan, and the integrated air and missile defense command ship USS Winston S. Churchill. Operation Southern Spear, a Department of War initiative, aims to enhance security and stability across the Western Hemisphere by disrupting and degrading transnational criminal networks, reflecting the U.S. commitment to a safe and secure hemisphere.
-
Second loss for Dominica in Concacaf series
In a thrilling encounter during the Concacaf Series in St. Kitts, Dominica’s senior men’s national football team faced a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat against Sint Maarten. Despite a stellar performance by Travist Joseph, who scored twice, defensive vulnerabilities proved costly for Dominica, as reported by the Dominica Football Association. The match began with Dominica displaying vigor and intent, but Sint Maarten seized an early lead against the run of play. Joseph’s first goal, assisted by Troy Jules, leveled the score before halftime. The second half saw Dominica push for dominance, but Sint Maarten struck again, taking a 2-1 lead. Joseph’s second goal, a header, brought the teams level once more. However, a defensive error led to a penalty, which Sint Maarten converted to secure the win. This loss marks Dominica’s second consecutive defeat in the tournament. The Concacaf Series will resume in March 2026, with Dominica set to face St. Kitts and Belize.
-
Meervoudige inbraakverdachte aangehouden
In a significant breakthrough, the Jarikaba police apprehended 24-year-old N.H., widely known by his alias ‘NIA,’ on Friday, November 14, 2025. The suspect, who has been linked to multiple burglaries, was arrested following a complaint filed by victim R.A. on Thursday, November 13, 2025. R.A. reported a home invasion at his residence on Lakatanweg, where the intruder gained access by removing three shutter glasses from his bedroom window. The burglar allegedly stole a bottle of perfume and an undisclosed amount of money in SRD.
-
Police Charge Man After Early-Morning Break-In at Ottos Comprehensive School
Authorities have pressed multiple charges against a Villa resident following a break-in at Ottos Comprehensive School, which resulted in significant damage to a classroom and the theft of several items. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, November 12, when police were alerted to an intruder on the school premises around 3:45 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered evidence of forced entry, including a shattered window. Investigators reported that classroom supplies and personal belongings were stolen during the burglary. During a search of the area, police apprehended a man carrying a bag filled with items suspected to have been taken from the school. The suspect was immediately arrested and taken into custody. He now faces charges of breaking and entering, larceny, and malicious damage.
-
Let the Parks fly!
The 2025 OECS Swimming Championships saw Saint Lucia narrowly miss the team title, edged out once again by Grenada. However, the spotlight firmly belonged to four Saint Lucian swimmers who claimed high point trophies in their respective divisions. Among them, Sapphire Parks emerged as a standout performer, competing for the fourth time and making her debut in the Under-13 category. Parks, a Form 1 student at St Joseph’s Convent and an alumna of The Montessori Centre, dominated the competition at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre in St Vincent and the Grenadines on November 9. She secured an impressive haul of ten gold medals and one silver, amassing 97 points. Belle Adams of SVG, with Saint Lucian heritage, trailed in second place, 33 points behind. Parks’ stellar performance included setting two new OECS records in the 50m and 100m backstroke, shaving more than a second off the previous best time in the latter. With ten OECS records to her name, including seven in the 9–10 division, Parks is poised for even greater dominance in the coming years. Her progression is no surprise, given her earlier achievements at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships, where she was the youngest member of Team Saint Lucia. At Trinidad and Tobago’s National Aquatics Centre in Couva, she clinched four gold medals and eight overall, earning the high point trophy for her division. Parks’ journey from finishing second in the Under-9 class in 2022 to becoming a three-time OECS champion and first-time CARIFTA champion is a testament to her dedication and talent. Beyond swimming, Parks is a well-rounded individual, excelling in academics and track athletics. She placed third in District 1 and fifth overall in Saint Lucia for her CPEA exams. Her ambition extends to representing Saint Lucia at the Olympics, following in the footsteps of notable athletes like Julien Alfred, Danielle Beaubrun, and Mikaili Charlemagne. Parks, a member of the Sea Jays Legends Swim Club, aims to further her swimming career overseas, with her mother exploring prep school options to elevate her training and competition. For this young star, the future is brimming with potential and promise.