On November 13, 2025, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis, accompanied by a high-level delegation, visited Taipei Veterans General Hospital (TVGH) to engage in discussions on Taiwan’s advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and smart healthcare. The visit, which included Ambassador Edward Tao and H.E. Donya Francis, the Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis to Taiwan, focused on fostering collaboration in public health, medical technology, and professional training. Dr. Wei-Ming Chen, Director of TVGH, highlighted Taiwan’s dedication to delivering professional and compassionate healthcare, underscoring its role as a key player in health diplomacy. Prime Minister Drew commended Taiwan as a reliable ally and expressed optimism about deepening bilateral cooperation in healthcare and technology to improve the well-being of citizens in both nations.
分类： health
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Health officials report three suspected cases of cholera
The Dominican Republic remains on high alert as it reports three suspected cases of cholera in the final week of the year, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MSP). While no confirmed cases or deaths have been recorded, the country faces significant risk due to the ongoing cholera outbreak in neighboring Haiti. Health authorities emphasized that Haiti continues to report community outbreaks of cholera, with confirmed circulation of the Vibrio cholerae O1 bacterium, raising concerns about potential imported cases through land and river routes. To date, 30 suspected cases have been identified, primarily concentrated in Santo Domingo, Santiago, the National District, Barahona, and Monte Cristi. In response, the Dominican Republic has activated its National Contingency Plan to strengthen prevention and control measures. This includes active surveillance of acute diarrhea, screening at border points and binational markets, water and food sampling, and distribution of essential supplies like oral rehydration salts, chlorine, and emergency kits. Public health officials are also conducting health education campaigns on hygiene, handwashing, and safe water use. Cholera, a bacterial intestinal infection transmitted through contaminated water or food, can cause severe watery diarrhea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and, in extreme cases, death. Authorities urge individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. Preventive measures include proper handwashing, consuming safe food and water, and maintaining optimal sanitary conditions. The Dominican Republic has intensified surveillance in border provinces such as Dajabón, Elías Piña, Independencia, and Pedernales to mitigate the risk of cholera spreading from Haiti. The crisis in Haiti, exacerbated by poor sanitation and heavy rains, has resulted in 17 confirmed deaths since September, with fears of further escalation due to the country’s extreme vulnerability and internal displacement caused by armed gang violence. Despite these challenges, Dominican health authorities remain confident in their ability to prevent the spread of cholera within their borders.
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Belize Urged to Act as Diabetes Claims Hundreds
On November 14, 2025, Belize joined the global community in observing World Diabetes Day, with a pressing call to action against the escalating diabetes crisis. Diabetes has emerged as the third leading cause of death in Belize, claiming over 200 lives this year alone. Health leaders, including Lynette Valerio, President of the Belize Diabetes Association, emphasized that the time for awareness has passed, and immediate action is now imperative. This year’s theme, ‘Diabetes and Well-being,’ particularly highlights the role of workplaces in managing the disease. Valerio stressed that combating diabetes is not just an individual responsibility but a collective national effort. She urged businesses to implement workplace wellness programs, noting that many employees with diabetes face challenges in managing their condition due to a lack of understanding or support from employers. The association called for greater investment in workplace health initiatives to ensure employees can access medical checkups and medication without hindrance. The message is clear: Belize must act decisively to address this public health emergency.
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CARPHA calls for greater action
In observance of World Diabetes Day, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has issued a compelling appeal to governments, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, workplaces, and individuals across the region to rally behind the global theme, ‘Diabetes and Wellbeing.’ This initiative underscores the campaign’s focus on addressing diabetes in the workplace, curbing its rising prevalence, and mitigating its life-altering complications that affect thousands in the Caribbean. Diabetes, a chronic condition resulting from insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use, can lead to severe health issues such as nerve damage, cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, blindness, and lower-limb amputations if not properly managed. Globally, diabetes remains a critical health threat, with 1.6 million deaths attributed to it in 2021, nearly half of which occurred before the age of 70. High blood glucose levels also accounted for 11% of cardiovascular deaths. The prevalence of diabetes has doubled since 1990, with 14% of adults living with the condition in 2022. In the Caribbean, diabetes is a significant public health challenge, with the highest prevalence in the Americas at 11.9%. Risk factors such as obesity (23.2%), physical inactivity (31%), and unhealthy diets are also alarmingly high. Dr. Lisa Indar, Executive Director of CARPHA, highlighted the agency’s efforts to combat diabetes through capacity-building initiatives. Over 100 healthcare providers and civil society representatives across five member states have been trained using CARPHA’s Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes in Primary Care in the Caribbean, adding to the 17 member states trained from 2021 to 2022. CARPHA is also set to relaunch an online, on-demand version of this training via a Moodle Learning Management System to enhance accessibility. CARPHA emphasizes that many risk factors for type 2 diabetes are preventable through healthy diets, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol. For those living with diabetes, proper treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular screenings can prevent or delay complications. CARPHA urges member states and partners to expand access to free or affordable diabetes risk screenings, implement or update national diabetes guidelines, promote healthy environments, and engage communities and individuals in prevention and care. Self-management, including monitoring blood glucose levels, adhering to medication, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, is crucial for individuals with diabetes. World Diabetes Day, the largest diabetes awareness campaign globally, unites individuals, healthcare professionals, advocates, policymakers, and the public to raise awareness and take action against diabetes, reaching over 160 countries.
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New mosquito challenge in St Ann
Leroy Scott, the Chief Public Health Inspector for St Ann, has called on residents to take immediate action to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites in the wake of Hurricane Melissa and ongoing rainfall. Speaking at the St Ann Municipal Corporation’s monthly meeting on Thursday, Scott highlighted a concerning surge in mosquito breeding, particularly of the Culex species, which thrive in flooded areas, clogged drains, and stagnant water collections. Unlike the Aedes aegypti mosquito, Culex mosquitoes do not breed in containers but instead in debris, ponds, and natural water accumulations left by the storm. Scott emphasized that these mosquitoes attack in swarms and are persistent, making the situation particularly challenging. He urged residents to clear debris, unblock drains, and remove fallen trees and vegetation to mitigate the issue. The health department has intensified its efforts with larvicidal treatments, oiling of temporary water accumulations, and a rigorous fogging schedule over the next five weeks. Scott advised residents to protect themselves by staying indoors when possible, as the Culex mosquitoes are larger, darker, and more aggressive than other species.
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Ethiopia confirms outbreak of deadly Marbug virus: Africa CDC
Ethiopia has officially declared an outbreak of the highly lethal Marburg virus in its southern region, as confirmed by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on Saturday. The virus, known for its severe hemorrhagic symptoms akin to Ebola, has already been detected in at least nine cases. The National Reference Laboratory in Ethiopia has verified the presence of the virus, with ongoing epidemiological investigations revealing similarities to strains previously identified in East Africa. The Marburg virus, transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, boasts a fatality rate ranging from 25% to 80%. It causes symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe bleeding, with an incubation period of up to 21 days. Ethiopian health authorities have swiftly mobilized to contain the outbreak in the Jinka area, collaborating with Africa CDC to mitigate the risk of further spread across East Africa. This development follows recent outbreaks in Tanzania and Rwanda, where the virus claimed 10 and 15 lives, respectively. While no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment exists, supportive care, including rehydration and symptom management, can improve survival rates. Notably, Rwanda recently trialed an experimental vaccine developed by the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute.
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World Diabetes Day: a growing epidemic
Santo Domingo – On World Diabetes Day, health experts across Latin America issued a compelling call for early diagnosis, enhanced patient education, and the eradication of widespread myths that obstruct effective diabetes management. With regional data revealing that 112 million adults are living with diabetes—a figure that has tripled since 1990—the condition has emerged as one of the region’s most pressing public health crises.
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Belizean Roots, Global Impact: Randall Edgell’s Path to Neurology
Belize is gaining international recognition in the healthcare sector, thanks to the remarkable achievements of Dr. Randall Edgell. Born and raised in Belize, Dr. Edgell’s journey from Saint John’s College to becoming a leading neurologist is nothing short of inspiring. Currently serving as the director of the Souers Stroke Institute at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, he is revolutionizing stroke care and saving countless lives. In a recent interview with Belize on Reel, Dr. Edgell shared his story of perseverance, passion, and the drive to make a difference. His work has taken him across the globe, including Egypt and Iran, where he mentors aspiring researchers and shares his expertise. Dr. Edgell’s message to Belizeans is clear: seize opportunities and seek mentorship to advance in your chosen field. Earlier this year, he was honored with the prestigious Sydney Souers Grant Award, a testament to his contributions to medicine. Despite living abroad, Dr. Edgell remains deeply connected to Belize, often returning to inspire others and demonstrate that greatness knows no boundaries. His story is a beacon of hope and a reminder that with determination, anyone can achieve their dreams.
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Free Vaccine Available to Prevent Deadly Pneumonia Bacteria
In a significant public health initiative, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has announced the nationwide availability of the PCV-Thirteen vaccine at no cost. This vaccine, which protects against pneumonia, meningitis, and other streptococcus pneumoniae infections, is now accessible to all citizens, particularly targeting the vulnerable populations of children and the elderly. Previously, the vaccine cost over $350 at private health facilities, making it inaccessible to many. The PCV-Thirteen vaccine is designed to prevent severe illnesses caused by streptococcus pneumoniae, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, sinusitis, ear infections, and blood infections. According to the World Health Organization, these infections claim the lives of approximately 300,000 children under five and over 200,000 adults aged seventy and above globally each year. Nurse Lylia Middleton, the Expanding Program Immunization Manager at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, emphasized the prevalence of pneumonia in Belize, particularly among the elderly and young children. She noted that many individuals have been hospitalized or have died from these preventable infections. The PCV-Thirteen vaccine offers lifelong protection with a single dose, and while it may cause minor side effects, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and death. This initiative builds on a previous program introduced in 2010, which provided the PCV-Ten vaccine free of charge but only to children aged two months to five years. The expanded program now includes all age groups, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and reducing the burden of preventable diseases in Belize.
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Free Vaccine Rollout Aims to Stop Deadly Pneumonia
In a significant public health initiative, the Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize has introduced the PCV-13 vaccine, offering it free of charge at public health facilities nationwide. This campaign aims to safeguard the country’s most vulnerable populations—children and the elderly—from severe infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sinus diseases. Health authorities have underscored the urgency of this measure, citing studies that reveal 40% of healthy children and 10% of healthy adults carry the bacteria responsible for these illnesses. Dr. Liliane Middleton, a representative from the Ministry, highlighted the vaccine’s long-term efficacy, stating, ‘A single dose of PCV-13 provides lifelong protection. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect our families, communities, and ourselves.’ The World Health Organisation reports that pneumococcal diseases claim the lives of approximately 300,000 children under five annually, with the majority of fatalities occurring in developing nations. To mitigate this risk in Belize, the Ministry has ensured widespread accessibility to the vaccine, encouraging families to visit their nearest health center or mobile clinic to receive the immunization at no cost. Dr. Middleton reiterated, ‘The vaccine is available at all public health centers and mobile clinics. Anyone interested can simply request it, and it will be administered free of charge.’