Health authorities in Jamaica are sounding the alarm over a potential surge in leptospirosis cases, a deadly bacterial infection, as communities battle stagnant floodwaters left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), emphasized the heightened risk during a recent interview on Radio Jamaica’s Hotline program. She warned that the current conditions—standing water contaminated with animal waste—create an ideal breeding ground for the disease. The Ministry of Health has already identified suspected cases, which are being treated as confirmed under protocol. Leptospirosis, which can escalate rapidly into a life-threatening illness, is transmitted through contact with contaminated water, particularly through cuts or abrasions on the skin. Dr. Bisasor-McKenzie urged the public to take preventive measures, including wearing protective footwear, avoiding exposure to dirty water, and ensuring proper garbage disposal. She stressed the importance of personal responsibility, noting that while health teams are working to address the crisis, individual vigilance is critical to curbing the spread of the disease. The CMO’s call to action underscores the urgent need for community-wide efforts to mitigate the risk of infection and prevent further health complications.
分类： health
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New Dental and Eye Clinic to Be Established in Barbuda
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit the establishment of a Dental and Eye Clinic in Codrington, Barbuda, marking a significant stride in the Government’s ongoing efforts to bolster healthcare accessibility and equity across the twin-island nation. For years, Barbudans have grappled with the arduous task of seeking dental and eye care, often necessitating costly and inconvenient trips to Antigua for procedures like extractions, fillings, and vision tests. The new clinic aims to bridge this gap by delivering essential oral and vision health services directly to the local community. This initiative is a cornerstone of the Government’s National Health Strategic Plan (2021–2025) and the Barbuda Recovery and Resilience Framework, which emphasize equitable healthcare access and the decentralization of vital social services. Additionally, the project aligns with the Sustainable Island Resource Framework (SIRF) by fostering climate-resilient, community-based infrastructure that enhances quality of life and promotes sustainable living. The clinic will be integrated within or adjacent to the Barbuda Health Centre, leveraging existing utilities, administrative resources, and security infrastructure to ensure cost-effectiveness and service continuity. Initially, a rotating team of dental surgeons and ophthalmologists from Antigua will staff the clinic, supported by local nurses and technicians. Over time, the Ministry of Health plans to roll out training programs to cultivate local expertise in basic dental and eye care. The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs has been tasked with spearheading the project’s planning, coordination, and implementation, in collaboration with regional and international partners like the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to secure technical assistance, equipment, and funding. Preparatory works are slated to begin within three months, with full operationalization expected within six to eight months. A comprehensive implementation report, detailing the project’s budget, timelines, staffing, and partnership arrangements, will be submitted to Cabinet within three months. In a related move, the Cabinet also approved the construction of a helipad near the Hanna Thomas Hospital to facilitate swift patient transfers between Antigua and Barbuda, as well as the expansion of a medical laboratory and the establishment of a Blood Bank at the hospital.
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Diabetes remains a persistent chronic disease in the Federation
The St. Kitts Diabetes Association has raised urgent concerns about the escalating diabetes crisis in the Federation, with over 3,000 individuals currently diagnosed and the numbers expected to rise. Dr. Reginald O’Loughlin, Public Relations Officer of the Association, emphasized the severity of the situation during an interview with SKNVibes News. He highlighted that many patients are diagnosed only after developing severe complications such as kidney failure, amputations, and blindness. Globally, diabetes affects over 600 million people, and projections for 2025 indicate no signs of decline. In St. Kitts and Nevis, new cases are identified weekly, with men often delaying medical attention until the disease has advanced. Dr. O’Loughlin stressed the importance of preventive measures, including healthier diets and regular exercise, to combat the epidemic. Additionally, the Association has observed borderline diabetic symptoms in school-aged children, attributing part of the problem to unhealthy food options sold near schools. Discussions are ongoing about implementing taxes on sugary beverages to curb consumption and fund healthcare initiatives.
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Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association joins global community to mark 2025 World Diabetes Day
The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA) is set to join the global community in commemorating World Diabetes Day and Awareness Month in 2025, focusing on the theme ‘Diabetes and the Workplace.’ Observed annually on November 14, World Diabetes Day (WDD) stands as the largest global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes, emphasizing prevention, early diagnosis, and access to care and treatment. The blue circle, symbolizing life, health, and unity, serves as the global emblem for diabetes, reflecting hope and a collective commitment to improving diabetes awareness and support. With nearly 589 million adults worldwide living with diabetes—40% of whom are unaware of their condition—the campaign highlights the critical role workplaces play in supporting diabetes prevention and care. In Antigua and Barbuda, approximately 11.7% of adults aged 20-79 live with diabetes, underscoring the urgency of the issue. ABDA President Charity Dublin emphasized the importance of workplace wellness initiatives, stating, ‘Healthier work environments can significantly enhance employees’ efforts to lead healthier lives.’ ABDA has outlined a series of activities for November 2025, including media engagements, workplace screenings, public webinars, and health fairs, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting individuals living with diabetes. The association also acknowledged its key partners, including the Ministry of Health and various local organizations, for their continued support in this vital initiative.
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New QEH discharge system rolls out to speed up bed management
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has implemented a new system of daily discharge boards across its wards to streamline patient flow, optimize bed management, and keep families informed throughout the care process. The initiative, introduced earlier this month, is being rolled out in phases and aims to provide patients, their families, and healthcare teams with clear insights into expected discharge dates, enabling better planning and coordination.
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Taiwan Donates Occupational Therapy Equipment to Support Mental Health Recovery in St. Kitts and Nevis
In a significant move to bolster mental health recovery, Taiwan has donated a range of occupational therapy equipment to St. Kitts and Nevis. The donation ceremony, held at JNF Hospital on November 12th, 2025, was attended by Ambassador Edward Lin-Wen Tao and Third Secretary Ms. Ping-Yu Feng. The equipment, including craft materials, baking tools, an oven, washing machine, microwave, exercise bike, and treadmill, was handed over to Mr. Curtis Martin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health. These items are expected to aid psychiatric patients in rebuilding daily living skills and supporting safe indoor rehabilitation at the Day Treatment Center. The initiative is part of the Mental Health System Enhancement Project managed by Ms. Ivy Shih of the TaiwanICDF Technical Mission. The project underscores the importance of not only medical treatment but also restoring independence and dignity in mental health recovery. Dr. Jenson Morton, Director of Health Institutions, highlighted that the upgraded occupational therapy center will offer more diverse therapies benefiting both patients and caregivers. Ambassador Tao expressed pride in Taiwan’s role as a reliable partner in strengthening public health, while Permanent Secretary Martin emphasized that the donation represents an investment in dignity and recovery, reflecting the enduring friendship between Taiwan and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
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Zorgwekkende toename hiv-gevallen onder jongeren en kwetsbare groepen
Suriname is grappling with a concerning surge in HIV infections, particularly among young people under 25 and adults aged 35 to 45, according to recent analyses by the national HIV program. Monique Holtuin, the HIV focal point at the Ministry of Public Health, Welfare, and Labor, revealed that an estimated 8,000 people are living with HIV in the country. While approximately 4,000 individuals are aware of their status and 85% of them are receiving proper care, the other half remains unaware, posing a significant risk for further transmission. Holtuin emphasized the urgency of early testing, especially among youth, who often develop symptoms years after contracting the virus. Children born to HIV-positive mothers are also vulnerable, as some mothers avoid treatment due to stigma, leading to preventable mother-to-child transmissions. The MSM (men who have sex with men) community faces heightened risks due to unprotected contact and societal marginalization. Holtuin highlighted the lack of awareness and misconceptions about HIV, stressing the importance of condom use and regular testing. She advocated for comprehensive sexual education in schools to empower young people with knowledge and encourage behavioral change. Holtuin underscored the need for sustained care, medication adherence, and societal efforts to eliminate stigma, aiming for a future where people feel free to test openly and discuss their health without fear.
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Conjoined twins successfully separated in Saudi Arabia
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A wave of hope and gratitude has swept across Jamaica following the successful separation of conjoined twins Azaria and Azora Elson. The life-altering surgery was performed earlier this week in Saudi Arabia by a skilled surgical team from the King Salman Humanitarian Mission. The announcement was made by Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, via social media on Thursday. ‘In our own difficult times, there are blessings for which we are grateful,’ Johnson Smith wrote. ‘For everyone who prayed for little Azora and Azaria, they were separated this morning by the expert team in Saudi Arabia.’ The minister also confirmed that while one of the twins will require additional heart surgery for an unrelated condition, both are currently in stable condition. The twins, who departed Jamaica in July 2025 for the complex procedure, received support from the Jamaican government and international partners, including the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (@KSRelief_EN), which spearheaded the medical intervention. Johnson Smith urged the public to continue praying for the twins, their parents, and all those involved in this humanitarian mission of love.
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ANSA Chemicals Jamaica donates 69,800 litres of bleach to support sanitisation efforts after hurricane
In a significant move to bolster public health and safety in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, ANSA Chemicals Jamaica has pledged a substantial donation of 69,800 litres of bleach. This initiative is designed to support sanitation and water treatment efforts in communities across Jamaica that have been severely affected by the hurricane. The donation comprises two types of bleach: 50,000 litres of eight per cent industrial-strength bleach and 19,800 litres of five per cent household bleach, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to safe, treated water. Stephen Summers, Country Manager of ANSA Chemicals Jamaica, emphasized the company’s commitment to aiding relief and rebuilding efforts, stating, ‘This donation is part of our ongoing commitment to the people of Jamaica in their time of need.’ The distribution will be managed by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), with plans to deliver three to five industrial totes and one container of household bleach daily. Matthew Samuda, Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change, praised the partnership, highlighting the critical role of sanitation in preventing public health crises post-disaster. Commander Alvin Gayle, Director General of ODPEM, also welcomed the donation, noting its importance in maintaining public health and safety. ANSA Chemicals Jamaica, a leading provider of chemical products in the Caribbean, continues to play a vital role in enhancing community well-being through such initiatives.
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Climate crisis is a health crisis, says WHO chief
GENEVA, Switzerland — The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the urgent need to integrate health into formal negotiations at the COP climate summits, declaring that the climate crisis is fundamentally a health crisis. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking at a press conference in Geneva, highlighted the critical link between climate change and public health, urging for greater focus on this intersection in global climate discussions.