COVID-19 & Dengue rise in Caribbean, prompt measures to curb diseases

Some parts of the Caribbean nations reported rising cases of COVID-19, flu and Dengue, and people are urged to take all the precautions and actions to stay healthy.

Notably, UNICEF USAID Eastern and Southern Caribbean have shared some hygienic tips that will help the community boost their immunity, and by adopting these measures, people will be able to avoid such diseases.

Some of the suggestions to prevent these diseases are written below

– Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. One should dispose of or throw used tissue in the waste basket.

– People can also consider wearing a high-quality and well-fitting face mask, which may help them reduce the spread of respiratory germs.

– Citizens are advised to wash their hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds on a daily basis, especially after touching tissue with secretions after coughing or sneezing.

– If soap and water are not available in any case, one should also use alcohol-based hand rub.

Dengue and COVID-19 cases in St Kitts and Nevis

The Ministry of Health St Kitts and Nevis recorded 187 new confirmed cases of Dengue– a mosquito-borne illness.

Notably, the Ministry continues its Integrated Vector Management to control the mosquitos and the spread of Dengue. The Ministry’s vector control includes some strategies that will help them in dealing with this disease.

It includes the following,

– Source reduction

– Environment management

– Minimize individual exposure

– Reduce vector populations

These measures are being used as an effort to remove potential mosquito breeding sites.

Moreover, SKN reported COVID-19 cases at the JNF Hospital, which sparked concern among citizens. With COVID-19 reportedly making a comeback, the nation has been left in the dark, unsure of the threat they may face.

Dominica initiated a fogging campaign: Dengue Fever

Dominica started its fogging campaign on Sunday, December 3, to contain biting midges and mosquitoes transmitting Dengue Fever.

Further, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, in partnership with National Pest and Termite Control, geared up to initiate fogging exercises in various communities.

Locals are suggested to take necessary measures during the process; however, the fogging exercises are designed to be safe and effective.

Dengue and COVID-19 cases in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia has reported an increase in cases of RSV in the paediatric population. The Ministry of Health noted a significant increase in Dengue Fever. Moreover, record health facility closures and diversions for care due to environmental air quality issues were noted in 2023.

However, the country witnessed a drastic reduction in the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 2023. The attainment of PCR machines to facilitate COVID-19 testing allowed the country the capacity to test and detect other respiratory viruses, such as Influenza A and B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

Noting this, the Trinidad-based CARPHA noted the continued increase in the cases of Dengue over the past six months. As per the reports, it is suspected that many Caribbean regions are on alert for this disease.

Not only this, but the agency has stressed the importance of recognizing the correlated risks and ripple effects, pointing out that dengue outbursts, along with other mosquito-borne diseases such as Chikungunya and Zika.

Recent death in Bahamas due to COVID-19

Bahamas recorded its first death of 2024 due to COVID-19 on Wednesday, January 9. Considerably, the surprising count of about 47 cases has made people go into a dilemma.

Recently, two hospitalized cases have also been recorded which got tested positive for the virus. All the deaths and the increased count of infected cases with the virus have raised the need of awareness and care management in the region.