Prime Minister Gaston Browne has revealed that Antigua and Barbuda’s cutting-edge Renal Centre is on the brink of completion, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s healthcare landscape. The facility, designed to meet global standards, will offer advanced dialysis services and routine kidney transplants, ensuring accessibility for all citizens. The announcement was made during the country’s 44th Independence Day celebrations, where Browne emphasized the government’s dedication to elevating healthcare standards. Alongside the Renal Centre, the Prime Minister outlined plans to modernize community clinics in Liberta, Falmouth, and Bolans, as well as expand the All Saints Clinic. In a groundbreaking move, the former Jehovah’s Witness headquarters will be transformed into a state-of-the-art mental health facility, providing patients with a compassionate and dignified environment. Browne underscored the government’s commitment to equitable healthcare, stating, ‘These investments affirm that every life has worth, and every illness deserves care.’ The projects reflect a dual focus on empathy and excellence in medical services, positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a leader in regional healthcare innovation.
分类： health
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Antigua and Barbuda strengthens biosecurity under ASF Sampling Pilot
Antigua and Barbuda has made significant strides in enhancing its animal health and bio-security systems through the African Swine Fever (ASF) Sampling Pilot. This initiative, a collaboration between the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries, and the Blue Economy, aims to fortify national surveillance and response capabilities against animal diseases, particularly ASF. ASF is a highly contagious viral disease that poses severe economic risks to the swine industry. The program brought together veterinary officers, livestock specialists, and regional experts to reinforce national surveillance capacity and field response readiness. The opening day, held at the People’s Place Conference Room on Nugent Avenue, featured remarks from Craig M. Thomas of IICA, Fernando Hugo from the USDA, and Dr. Ericka Calderon, ASF Project Manager at IICA Headquarters. Gregory Bailey, Director of Agriculture, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to proactive surveillance and early detection systems, highlighting the importance of preparedness and rapid response in safeguarding national food security and livelihoods. Technical presentations introduced participants to the regional ASF surveillance framework and Antigua and Barbuda’s diagnostic capabilities. Dr. Tubal Edwards, Chief Veterinary Officer, provided an overview of the local swine industry and the Veterinary Services Division’s efforts to improve animal health monitoring. Dr. Christopher Hamilton-West, Epidemiologist, discussed epidemiological surveillance principles, supported by a visual presentation on best practices in field data collection and disease containment. The second day focused on practical application, with participants divided into two teams for farm visits across the island, including the His Majesty’s Prison Farm. A total of 35 pigs were sampled, with each tube carefully labeled for traceability. The samples are being prepared for overseas laboratory analysis to determine disease presence and guide future animal health strategies. The field visits tested surveillance procedures and reinforced the discipline and precision required in real-world disease investigation. Participants demonstrated the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe animal restraint, sample collection, and detailed data recording. Emphasis was also placed on the removal and sanitation process for PPE and equipment to prevent the transfer of infectious material. Dr. Dane Hartley, Veterinarian and Agricultural Health, Safety Agri-Food Quality Specialist with the EECOM, noted that the practical experience reinforced critical lessons from the previous day. After returning from the field, both teams participated in a joint debriefing session to evaluate their performance, share insights, and highlight key takeaways for continuous improvement in surveillance readiness. The ASF Sampling Pilot is part of the wider Surveillance and Response to Prevent African Swine Fever in the Americas Project, which aims to bolster regional coordination and capacity building across the Caribbean. Through this initiative, Antigua and Barbuda continues to position itself as a proactive leader in animal health management, ensuring that its livestock sector remains safe, sustainable, and resilient. The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to ongoing disease monitoring, collaboration with regional partners, and protecting the future of the nation’s pork and livestock industry, with farmers welcoming the initiative.
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Alarming rise in children’s alcohol experimentation – NCSA
A recent study conducted by the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) in Barbados has revealed a dramatic increase in alcohol experimentation among schoolchildren, with rates soaring nearly fivefold as students transition from primary to secondary school. Dr. Jonathan Yearwood, Research and Information Officer at the NCSA, shared these alarming findings in an interview with Barbados TODAY, highlighting adolescents as a high-risk group for substance abuse. According to Dr. Yearwood, the data shows a significant rise in alcohol and marijuana use among youth aged 9 to 17, raising serious concerns about their health, future productivity, and social well-being. The research also uncovered that one in four individuals admitted to the Psychiatric Hospital for drug treatment had a co-morbid mental health diagnosis, exacerbating the societal challenges posed by addiction. Dr. Yearwood emphasized the broader implications of substance abuse, including increased risks of violence, crime, and workplace productivity losses. Surveys indicated that half of employees feared job loss if they disclosed substance abuse issues, while only 40% believed their workplace would offer support. To address these challenges, Dr. Yearwood stressed the importance of early intervention, workplace education programs, and comprehensive support systems. The NCSA plans to expand research and training for first responders and school personnel to better identify and assist adolescents struggling with substance use. Dr. Yearwood underscored the need for a holistic approach, stating, ‘Tackling substance abuse is not just about helping the individual; it’s about reducing crime, protecting public safety, and ensuring productivity across Barbados.’
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Health : Haiti and the Dominican Republic united for prevention
In a significant move to address public health challenges, officials from Haiti and the Dominican Republic convened in the border region of Dajabón to enhance epidemiological surveillance and foster bilateral cooperation. The meeting focused on mitigating health risks, particularly in light of the cholera alert in Haiti and the prevalence of respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses in the region. Haitian representatives expressed their commitment to collaboration, highlighting the potential for future joint initiatives. Dominican authorities reassured that no cholera cases have been reported in their northern border area, attributing this to effective public health campaigns promoting education, sanitation, and hygiene. Both nations pledged to bolster early warning systems, technical cooperation, and training programs for healthcare workers. These initiatives will emphasize early disease detection, rapid response, and the exchange of real-time epidemiological data. Additionally, vaccination and disinfection campaigns will be coordinated in high-risk zones. The collaboration also aims to engage local communities through awareness programs on hygiene and disease prevention, ultimately strengthening the resilience of border populations and reducing the risk of cross-border contagion.
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CARPHA Leads Health Response After Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Jamaica, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has taken a leading role in addressing the ensuing health crisis. The hurricane has left a trail of devastation, claiming lives, destroying homes, and disrupting livelihoods. CARPHA emphasizes that Jamaica’s suffering resonates across the Caribbean, underscoring the need for a unified regional response. Beyond the immediate physical damage, the storm has escalated significant health risks, including unsafe drinking water, food contamination, potential disease outbreaks, and mental health challenges. CARPHA is collaborating with key partners such as the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, Jamaica’s Ministry of Health, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and other regional stakeholders to prioritize public health in the recovery process. The agency is deploying critical resources, including medical supplies, rapid test kits, personal protective equipment (PPE), and field hospital infrastructure. Additionally, CARPHA is spearheading efforts to prevent the spread of diseases like dengue and leptospirosis. A key focus of the agency’s mission is to assist Jamaica in rebuilding more resilient health systems to better withstand future crises.
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New cases of malaria, dengue fever, and other diseases reported
The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Public Health reaffirmed on Thursday that no cholera cases have been reported in the country. The ministry emphasized that enhanced measures remain in place at border crossings and other entry points to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Through the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE), authorities continue to monitor and ensure timely reporting of notifiable diseases, including cholera. The ministry also urged the public to adhere to preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, consuming purified water, and eating safe food. As the governing body, the Ministry of Health is actively strengthening the nation’s response capabilities to better prepare for potential health crises. In 2024, the country has recorded 15 cholera cases, marking a 100% reduction compared to the previous week. The latest epidemiological bulletin (SE-42) also highlighted other health concerns. Four cases of malaria were reported, bringing the cumulative total to 779 confirmed cases, with no fatalities and an incidence rate of 8.97 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Leptospirosis cases remained unchanged this week, with a cumulative total of 94. Dengue cases saw a significant decline, with one new case reported this week, bringing the total to 240 confirmed cases—an 81% reduction compared to the same period last year. Respiratory diseases, including respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, influenza B Victoria, and SARS-CoV-2, continue to circulate. The bulletin also reported four maternal deaths, raising the cumulative total to 133, and 26 infant deaths, bringing the total to 1,451, a decrease from the 1,827 deaths recorded by the same date in 2024.
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Ministry of Health targets 10% cut in drinking harm
The Ministry of Health in Barbados has unveiled a comprehensive national strategy aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm by 10% by 2030. Announced by Minister of State for Health and Wellness, Davidson Ishmael, during a workshop hosted by the National NCD Commission, the plan addresses the pervasive cultural normalization of alcohol consumption while emphasizing the urgent need to mitigate its health and societal impacts. Minister Ishmael highlighted that while alcohol is deeply ingrained in Barbadian social life, its excessive use leads to severe consequences, including chronic diseases, mental health issues, and societal problems like violence and domestic abuse. The strategy focuses on public education, early prevention, and stricter policies to regulate alcohol availability and marketing. It aligns with the WHO’s Global Action Plan for NCD Prevention and Control and the SAFER technical package, which includes measures such as strengthening alcohol access restrictions, enforcing drink-driving laws, and limiting alcohol advertising. Suleiman Bulbulia, Chairman of the National NCD Commission, emphasized the challenges of addressing commercial determinants of health, particularly in small island states like Barbados, where industries often prioritize profit over public well-being. He urged NGOs and stakeholders to reject funding from entities that harm public health and advocate for policies that promote healthier lifestyles.
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#MelissaAftermath: Tufton says teams accessing reports of dead bodies in remote areas
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, has announced a coordinated effort involving environmental health teams, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF), and other agencies to address critical issues in remote communities. Reports of deceased individuals and animals stranded in isolated areas have prompted urgent action. Dr. Tufton emphasized that while access to some regions remains challenging due to damaged roadways, progress is being made. ‘With improved communication, cleared roads, and enhanced mobility, we are now able to target specific areas and collaborate with authorities to secure others,’ he stated during a press briefing on Saturday. The minister highlighted the challenges of reaching marooned bodies and ensuring proper disposal of animal carcasses, noting that the JDF is providing air support to access affected zones. Additionally, Dr. Tufton mentioned that injured individuals, such as a man who suffered a broken leg and waited three days for medical attention, are being assisted. While official death toll figures are pending, the current count stands at 19, with updates expected from the Minister of Information, Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, once police reports are finalized.
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Cayman Islands blood bank sends donation to Jamaica
In a remarkable display of regional solidarity, the Cayman Islands Blood Bank has dispatched a vital shipment of 51 units of red cells and 72 units of plasma to Jamaica’s National Blood Transfusion Service. This donation, facilitated by the Health Services Authority (HSA), marks the first of several planned contributions to aid Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The initiative was spurred by an overwhelming public response, with 65 donors—including 13 first-time contributors—stepping forward to meet an urgent call for blood. This surge in donations far exceeds the usual daily average of fewer than 10 units, highlighting the community’s generosity. Dr. Lundie Richards, a consultant haematologist-oncologist at the HSA, praised the effort, describing it as a testament to humanity’s capacity for compassion. The HSA emphasized that this donation is part of a broader strategy to enhance regional health collaboration and emergency preparedness. Lizzette Yearwood, CEO of the HSA, lauded the initiative as lifesaving and urged continued donor participation, noting that blood has a limited shelf life of 35 days. Cayman Islands Health Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks also commended the donors, encouraging eligible individuals to contribute to both regional and local blood supplies. The Cayman Islands Blood Bank, which offers comprehensive blood-banking services, has also expanded its platelet availability and transfusion-medicine capabilities. Meanwhile, Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness has called for public blood donations as soon as conditions permit, following disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa.
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#MelissaAftermath: Field hospital to be deployed to Black River, says Tufton
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa on St Elizabeth, Jamaica, Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Christopher Tufton has announced the deployment of a field hospital to Black River within 24 hours. The initiative aims to restore critical health services disrupted by the hurricane. The field hospital, equipped with an operating theatre, diagnostic tools, and medical staff, will be set up by the non-governmental organization Samaritan’s Purse in collaboration with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and other government agencies. Dr. Tufton emphasized that the facility will provide immediate support while assessments of the damaged Black River Hospital are conducted. Additionally, another field hospital is expected from Spain, with ongoing discussions to establish more facilities in Trelawny and Westmoreland through partnerships with Canada and India. The minister highlighted the need for psychological support for traumatized health workers and called for increased blood donations to address the surge in trauma and emergency cases. Over 200 health workers will also participate in a nationwide clean-up effort to assist hospitals in the most affected areas. Restoration of primary health facilities across the island is anticipated within the next week.