Outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Barbados

Bridgetown, Barbados: Barbados has recorded a spike in COVID-19 cases. The Ministry of Health’s report stated that the nation had reported 182 new cases from the 925 tests conducted from December 23, 2023, to January 19, 2024, with no deaths. 

In comparison, during the period from November 25 to December 22 last year, there were 21 positive cases out of 333 tests. 

It is to be noted that out of 182 positive cases, 172 patients were 18 years old and older, and the other 10 were counted as under the age of 18. 

Moreover, till January 19, Barbados had recorded a total of 110 cases related to COVID-19. Notably, the death toll stands at 648 currently. The Ministry urged people to take necessary precautions to combat the increase of this flu. 

Just a few days back, the Ministry of Health and Wellness confirmed the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant named JN.1, which is considered a sub-variant of ‘Omicron.’ The flu is of significant concern for the neighbouring countries. 

The Barbadian Health Authority issued a statement saying that the detention of JN.1 was a result of ongoing local variant testing due to the rise of respiratory illnesses such as influenza A and B. 

The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Kenneth George, has emphasized the importance of practising precautionary measures. These measures are particularly important for protecting the people who are at risk, like the elderly, pregnant women and those suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases. 

People are advised to opt for the following measures, 

– Wear masks in public or crowded places

– Maintain proper hygiene like- washing hands more often

– Do not touch eyes, nose or mouth if any related symptoms of flu

– Avoid contact with people of vulnerable groups like the elderly, pregnant women

– Avoid going to schools or officers if anybody suffers from flu

– Arrived immediately at nearby medical facilities or contact medical practitioners if feel any symptoms or suffering from COVID-19

– Should visit COVID-19 detention camps for testing

Further, the Barbadian Ministry continues to prioritize monitoring and testing for new COVID-19 strains.