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.
分类： health
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#EyeOnMelissa: NCDA helplines to remain open during hurricane period
KINGSTON, Jamaica — As hurricane season approaches, the National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA), a division of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, has assured the public that its support helplines will remain active despite potential weather-related disruptions. The NCDA acknowledges that severe weather conditions might cause temporary service interruptions but emphasizes that assistance remains accessible through multiple channels.
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Elmsbridge Donates $5,000 to Support SLBMC’s PINKparty and Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts
The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has secured a significant boost to its breast cancer awareness efforts with a $5,000 donation from Elmsbridge, a leading property developer in Antigua. This contribution marks Elmsbridge’s debut as a sponsor of the hospital’s PINKparty fundraising campaign, an annual event dedicated to raising funds for critical healthcare advancements. The proceeds from this year’s PINKparty will be directed toward acquiring a state-of-the-art mammogram system, aimed at improving early detection capabilities and bolstering cancer care services across Antigua and Barbuda. Elmsbridge emphasized its commitment to supporting the local community, stating, ‘As property developers deeply rooted in Antigua, we are dedicated to uplifting the people and places that define this island.’ The PINKparty is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, commencing at 5:30 PM. Interested individuals are encouraged to register and join the initiative to champion breast cancer awareness and care.
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Dajabón market under health checks to prevent cholera spread from Haiti
In response to a resurgence of cholera in Haiti, health authorities in the Dominican Republic have escalated surveillance and sanitary measures at the Dajabón border to curb the potential spread of the disease. Dr. Zaberkis Rodríguez, Provincial Health Director, outlined the comprehensive steps being taken to safeguard public health. Inspectors have been deployed to the Dominican-Haitian bridge, where they are enforcing stringent hygiene protocols, prohibiting the entry of cooked food from Haiti, and disseminating educational materials in both Spanish and Creole. Additionally, health teams are closely monitoring the binational market to ensure compliance with food safety and water sanitation standards. Dr. Rodríguez assured that hospitals in Dajabón are fully equipped with trained medical staff and necessary supplies to handle any potential cholera cases. Haiti has reported more than 270 suspected cholera infections and at least 17 fatalities, primarily concentrated in Port-au-Prince. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and its partners have initiated emergency response efforts to address the deteriorating sanitary conditions. Dominican officials are urging citizens to maintain rigorous hygiene practices, disinfect water sources, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as diarrhea or dehydration arise.
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Regering kiest Marciano Djanam als nieuwe voorzitter SZF-bestuur
The Surinamese government has appointed Marciano Djanam as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the State Health Fund (SZF), following a rigorous selection process involving over eighty candidates. This strategic decision underscores the government’s commitment to fostering professionalism, transparency, and results-driven leadership within the nation’s healthcare system. Djanam brings extensive expertise in health, safety, security, environment, and quality (HSSEQ), having led teams in both the public and private sectors. His career is marked by the implementation of international quality standards and the development of strategic policies aimed at process improvement, risk management, and sustainable governance. Known for his people-centric, analytical, and forward-thinking leadership style, Djanam holds a Master of Science in International Health and Safety Management and an MBA, complemented by advanced training in leadership, auditing, risk management, and sustainable business practices. His appointment aims to bolster the SZF—Suriname’s largest health insurer—in its mission to provide affordable and accessible healthcare. Key priorities include enhancing service quality, improving the efficiency of healthcare policy implementation, and fostering closer collaboration with healthcare providers, all while upholding human dignity as a core principle.
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Health : Inauguration of the AMHE-GRAHN-Monde Community Health Center in Milot
A groundbreaking development in community healthcare has emerged in Haiti with the inauguration of the AMHE-GRAHN-Monde Community Health Center in Milot. Located in the northern commune of Génipailler, this state-of-the-art facility is the result of a collaborative effort led by the Reflection and Action Group for a New Haiti (GRAHN-Monde), with significant financial backing from the Haitian Medical Association Abroad (AMHE) USA-Canada, the Rally of Haitian Nurses and Auxiliary Nurses of Haitian Origin of Quebec (RIIAOHQ), and numerous international donors. Dr. Samuel Pierre, Co-founder and President of GRAHN-Monde, emphasized the center’s mission to deliver high-quality, accessible healthcare tailored to the needs of the local population. The facility offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary healthcare, mental health support, infectious disease screening and treatment, sickle cell disease care, eye care, cardiovascular disease management, and maternal and child health services. Beyond medical care, the center prioritizes health education, aiming to foster healthier lifestyles and regular access to healthcare. By providing essential services at an affordable cost, the AMHE-GRAHN Center addresses a critical gap in healthcare access, potentially reducing preventable mortality in the region. This initiative highlights the vital role of diaspora contributions, local organizations, and healthcare professionals in addressing Haiti’s ongoing multidimensional crisis and rebuilding its healthcare infrastructure.
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Health Ministry urges preventive measures to avoid disease outbreaks amid Tropical Storm Melissa
In response to the ongoing threat posed by Tropical Storm Melissa, the Ministry of Public Health in Santo Domingo has issued a stern warning to the public, emphasizing the need for stringent preventive measures to curb potential outbreaks of respiratory, diarrheal, and vector-borne diseases. The ministry highlighted that the heavy rainfall and flooding associated with the storm could create ideal conditions for the spread of illnesses such as influenza, dengue, leptospirosis, and acute diarrheal infections. ‘Families play a crucial role in safeguarding their health during such times. Simple yet effective actions like ensuring clean water, covering food, and maintaining personal hygiene can make a significant difference,’ the ministry stated. Key recommendations include purifying water by adding five drops of chlorine per gallon or boiling it before use, thoroughly washing fruits, vegetables, and kitchen utensils, avoiding contact with stagnant water or bathing in the rain, and frequent handwashing with soap and water, particularly before handling food.
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Health Minister Links Substance Abuse to Domestic Violence
In a recent address, Health Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized the critical link between substance abuse and domestic violence, advocating for stricter legislation to address the issue. Minister Bernard highlighted how alcohol, drugs, and tobacco impair judgment and escalate aggression, contributing to gender-based violence. He expressed profound concern over recent domestic violence tragedies, including the shocking case of a woman murdered and placed in a dirt drum, calling them a stark reminder of the urgent need for societal change. The Minister stressed the importance of collaborative efforts with organizations like the National Drug Abuse Council (NDAC) to push for laws curbing substance abuse. He also underscored the necessity of providing greater support to families and women to prevent such incidents. Minister Bernard urged all stakeholders to take responsibility and work collectively to create a safer, healthier society.
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Belize Moves Toward WHO Tobacco Standards
Belize is taking significant strides toward aligning its tobacco control measures with World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Health Minister Kevin Bernard has introduced a comprehensive Tobacco Control Bill aimed at safeguarding public health and future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco and secondhand smoke. The proposed legislation includes measures such as smoke-free public spaces, plain packaging for tobacco products, stringent advertising restrictions, and the establishment of a national body to oversee tobacco control efforts. Despite Belize signing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2005, the country has yet to implement comprehensive smoke-free laws. Minister Bernard emphasized the urgency of the bill, stating, ‘It’s never too late to act. We need to protect our citizens, especially our youth, from the devastating effects of smoking.’ He also highlighted the importance of public support and the need to balance public health with economic considerations. The bill represents a critical step toward fulfilling Belize’s long-standing commitment to the FCTC and addressing the region’s tobacco control challenges.
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KHMH CEO to Step Down, Leadership Search Begins
A significant leadership transition is underway at Belize’s largest healthcare institution, the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH). Chandra Nisbet-Cansino, who has served as CEO since 2021, has decided not to renew her contract, which is set to expire in the coming months. This decision marks the beginning of a search for new leadership to steer the hospital forward. While Health Minister Kevin Bernard clarified that he is not directly involved in board decisions, he acknowledged that the Ministry of Health maintains representation through CEO Julio Sabido, who sits on the KHMH board. Minister Bernard emphasized that the board has already convened to draft the terms of reference for the upcoming recruitment process. He expressed optimism about finding a suitable successor swiftly and extended his best wishes to Ms. Nisbet-Cansino for her future endeavors, noting her significant contributions to the hospital and her roles in other organizations. This leadership change raises questions about the future direction of KHMH and its impact on Belize’s healthcare system.