As Tropical Storm Melissa approaches Jamaica, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is urging citizens to prioritize not only their physical safety but also their mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, emphasized the importance of mental health during such stressful times, encouraging individuals to utilize available resources. These include the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline (888-NEW-LIFE) and the U-Matter Chatline, which supports young people aged 16 to 24. The Ministry also advises staying informed through credible sources, checking on vulnerable individuals, maintaining healthy habits, and seeking help if overwhelmed. Mental health professionals remain on standby to assist during and after the storm. For additional support, the public can contact the Health Emergency Operations Centre at 888-ONE-LOVE.
分类： health
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#EyeOnMelissa: Disruption to vector control activities likely
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW) has issued a public advisory warning of potential disruptions to vector control operations. Essential activities such as fogging, larviciding, and community inspections are expected to face temporary setbacks due to the storm’s aftermath. The MOHW emphasized that the hurricane is likely to trigger a significant surge in the mosquito population, heightening the risk of vector-borne diseases. To mitigate this, the ministry has urged residents to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves. These include stocking up on insect repellent, wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and pants, and installing screens on windows and doors. Additionally, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant in identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Practical steps include puncturing holes in old cans and securely covering water drums to prevent stagnant water accumulation. The MOHW’s announcement underscores the importance of community-wide efforts to combat the anticipated rise in mosquito activity and protect public health in the post-hurricane period.
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Reinventing cauliflower
Cauliflower has emerged as a culinary superstar, captivating the health-conscious with its versatility and nutritional benefits. This cruciferous vegetable, known for its firm white head and crisp green leaves, has become a staple in low-carb diets, replacing traditional carbohydrates in innovative ways. From pizza crusts to cauliflower rice, its adaptability is reshaping modern cuisine. Beyond its culinary appeal, cauliflower is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in vitamin C, folate, potassium, and vitamin B6. Its high fiber content and low calorie count—just 25 calories per cup—make it an ideal choice for weight management. Local sourcing is encouraged, as fresh, locally grown cauliflower retains more nutrients due to shorter harvesting-to-market times. Recipes like mashed cauliflower with olive oil, creamy cauliflower soup, and cheesy cauliflower casserole highlight its versatility and flavor. Whether steamed, roasted, or pureed, cauliflower continues to inspire creative, healthy dishes that cater to diverse palates.
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New Clinic Model to Feature Full-Time Doctors and Expanded Services
In a landmark announcement, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph has introduced a transformative healthcare model for Antigua and Barbuda, aiming to revolutionize primary healthcare delivery. The new system will assign full-time doctors to community clinics, ensuring they operate five days a week and offer expanded, consistent services. Joseph made the announcement during a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm, hosted by All Saints West MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. Currently, clinics provide essential services such as antenatal, postnatal, wound care, and diabetic care. However, the revamped model will introduce daily physician availability from Monday to Friday and incorporate full-time eye care services. Joseph highlighted the success of the Medical Benefits Scheme, which has facilitated over 2,000 free cataract surgeries, showcasing the impact of accessible healthcare. Additionally, the All Saints Clinic will be upgraded to a full polyclinic, offering free dental care, nephrology, gynecology, radiology, and basic lab testing. This upgrade will eliminate the need for patients to travel to the Celeste Bird Medical Centre for services like pap smears and blood tests. The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to decentralize health services, ensuring major clinics cater to nearby communities such as Seaview Farm, Buckley’s, and Freemans Village. Joseph also provided updates on national projects, including a new dialysis center at the Old Holberton Hospital, set to open within 12 to 18 months. The facility will expand dialysis capacity from 27 to 45 stations and include a surgical theatre for kidney transplants. Antigua and Barbuda has already completed 15 successful kidney transplants, a first in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The new center will serve both residents and returning nationals reliant on dialysis. Joseph concluded by emphasizing the government’s commitment to establishing polyclinics rather than pop-up clinics, ensuring consistent, community-based healthcare across the nation.
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Rotary Club of Antigua Joins the Global Effort to End PolioWorld Polio Day – October 24, 2025
The Rotary Club of Antigua has joined millions globally in commemorating World Polio Day 2025, reaffirming its steadfast dedication to eradicating polio worldwide. Polio, a debilitating and potentially fatal infectious disease, once afflicted hundreds of thousands of children annually. However, since the inception of Rotary’s PolioPlus program in 1985, global polio cases have plummeted by over 99%, with only a handful of cases persisting in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This extraordinary achievement stands as one of the most successful global health campaigns in history.
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The OECS and Direct Relief Strengthen Vector Control and Surveillance in Antigua and Barbuda
In a landmark initiative to bolster national health systems, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission, supported by the Direct Relief-funded Enhancing Health Infrastructure and Resilience (EHIR) project, delivered critical resources to the Ministry of Health of Antigua and Barbuda on August 29th, 2025. The donation included two vehicles, thirty laptops, and ten tablets, aimed at enhancing vector control and epidemiological surveillance efforts. These resources are expected to significantly improve the Ministry’s capacity to monitor disease trends, coordinate rapid responses, and implement targeted interventions to curb the spread of vector-borne and communicable diseases. The vehicles will provide essential mobility for health teams in field operations, while the laptops and tablets will streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting for surveillance programs. The handover ceremony, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, was attended by key officials, including the Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph, and senior representatives from the OECS Commission. Sir Molwyn Joseph highlighted the growing impact of climate change on the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses and stressed the importance of continued vigilance. He expressed profound gratitude to the OECS, Direct Relief, and PAHO for their partnership, emphasizing the power of solidarity in addressing public health challenges. Dr Roxanne Brizan-St. Martin, Programme Director for Health, Social Inclusion, and Social Protection at the OECS Commission, underscored the project’s alignment with OECS Strategic Priority 4, which focuses on building resilience by strengthening communities, systems, infrastructure, and people. She framed the event as a celebration of collaborative solutions and regional cooperation, stating, ‘A victory for one is indeed a victory for all.’ This initiative underscores the OECS Commission’s commitment to fostering resilience and improving health outcomes across the region.
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Pharmacies to patients: Alternatives available despite supply issues
Private pharmacists in Barbados are stepping up to reassure citizens that intermittent shortages of prescription medications, including those for chronic conditions, are being effectively managed. While alternative drugs are available, patients may face higher costs at private pharmacies compared to the subsidized prices offered through the Barbados Drug Formulary, administered by the Barbados Drug Service. The shortages have been attributed to global supply chain disruptions exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Marlon Ward Rogers, President of the Barbados Pharmaceutical Society, emphasized that while brand-name medications may be temporarily unavailable, generic alternatives often remain accessible. He noted that private pharmacies frequently stock non-formulary medications, albeit at higher prices, ensuring patients can still obtain necessary treatments. Former Health Minister Donville Inniss highlighted broader concerns about access to basic medicines within the public health system, particularly at polyclinics and hospitals. Ward Rogers acknowledged the challenges but stressed that pharmacists are committed to finding solutions, even if it means sourcing from non-traditional suppliers. Despite the hurdles, he assured that medications are typically restocked within one to two weeks, minimizing prolonged shortages.
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Sandals Halcyon health fair focuses on breast cancer and more
In a significant initiative to promote health and wellness, Sandals Halcyon Beach Resorts partnered with the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs to organize a health fair on October 22. This event was part of the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and aimed to provide a wide range of health services to the resort’s employees. Shannelle Coore, the HR manager at Sandals Halcyon, emphasized the importance of the health fair, stating that it is an annual event designed to offer accessible health services and information to all team members. The fair covered various aspects of health, including breast cancer awareness, sexual health, mental health, and more. Coore highlighted the critical role of a healthy workforce, noting that educating employees on health measures can positively impact their families as well. The event was not limited to line staff but was open to the entire workforce, ensuring comprehensive participation. Shirlan Edward, a family life educator at the Ministry of Health, expressed her department’s satisfaction in bringing essential services to the resort’s staff. The health fair included services such as blood pressure and blood sugar testing, pap smears, breast screenings, rapid testing for infectious diseases, dental screenings, and body measurements by the nutrition unit. Additionally, the event featured an information table on environmental health and mental health nurses available for consultations. Edward stressed the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in the workplace, and noted that the Ministry of Health has been actively involved in various activities throughout October to raise awareness about breast cancer. These activities included pink Fridays and collaborations with schools and workplaces like Sandals Halcyon Beach Resorts. The health fair ran from mid-morning until late afternoon, providing an invaluable opportunity for the resort’s team members to prioritize their health and well-being.
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PAHO urges Caribbean to ensure the region remains polio-free
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) marked World Polio Day on Friday, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and action to preserve the Americas’ polio-free status. The region has not recorded a case of wild poliovirus in over three decades, a milestone achieved through widespread vaccination efforts. However, PAHO warns that declining immunization rates pose a significant threat to this hard-earned achievement.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Pregnant women urged to prepare as storm nears
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As Tropical Storm Melissa advances across the Caribbean Sea, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has issued a critical advisory urging expectant mothers to take immediate precautions. The ministry emphasized the heightened risks for pregnant women, especially those in their final trimester or with high-risk conditions such as hypertension, sickle cell disease, or diabetes. In a statement released on Friday, the ministry reassured the public that all maternity wards and hospitals across the island remain fully operational and prepared to assist pregnant women during the storm. Pregnant mothers are advised to stay informed through official updates from the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). The ministry outlined several safety measures, including consulting healthcare providers for guidance, preparing essential items such as maternity records and hospital bags, keeping phones charged and important contacts accessible, staying indoors away from windows, and ensuring access to clean water, non-perishable food, and medications. Additionally, pregnant women residing in low-lying or coastal areas are urged to relocate to safer shelters promptly. The ministry also warned against walking or driving through floodwaters and advised avoiding flooded areas altogether.