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Protect yourself & your family against respiratory infections- Health Ministry

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is closely monitoring the seasonal increase in respiratory infections and is encouraging the community to take protective measures to reduce its exposure to infections. Photo: scopeheal.com
National Epidemiologist Ms Harmony Brewley-Massiah said the seasonal increases in respiratory infections spread across all age groups, with young children slightly more affected. Photo: Facebook/File
National Epidemiologist Ms Harmony Brewley-Massiah said the seasonal increases in respiratory infections spread across all age groups, with young children slightly more affected. Photo: Facebook/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Ministry of Health and Social Development is closely monitoring the seasonal increase in respiratory infections and is encouraging the community to take protective measures to reduce its exposure to infections.

According to the ministry's statistics, National Epidemiologist, Ms Harmony Brewley-Massiah said the seasonal increases in respiratory infections spread across all age groups, with young children slightly more affected.

Ms Brewley-Massiah stated that a respiratory infection affects the respiratory tract, which includes the sinuses, throat, airways, and lungs. Common respiratory infections include the common cold, flu/influenza, bronchitis, pneumonia and Covid-19. These infections she said can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens and can range from mild to severe.

Symptoms

“The symptoms reported by most cases vary, but commonly include fever, cough, congestion, body aches and sore throat.” Ms Brewley-Massiah said. She added, “If you or a family member, experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or persistent, please seek medical advice promptly,” Brewley-Massiah stated in a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on June 13, 2024.

The Epidemiologist said children under the age of two and the elderly are at an increased risk of severe infections that can result in serious consequences. She confirmed that most cases are mild, but parents should keep an eye on symptoms and visit their medical provider if there is a persistent high temperature of 37.8oC or above, reduction or difficulty in feeding, tiredness or irritability, or difficulty or long pauses in breathing.

Ms Brewley Massiah said the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and is working closely with healthcare providers for the necessary support. She said health updates would be provided as necessary.

6 Responses to “Protect yourself & your family against respiratory infections- Health Ministry”

  • ................................. (17/06/2024, 01:07) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
    Oh lawd another pandemic?
  • Not a medical practioner (17/06/2024, 06:33) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    I suggest if a persistent cough remains long after, that you at least seek assistance from a pharmacist to remedy the issue. Take care!
  • hm (17/06/2024, 07:07) Like (23) Dislike (2) Reply
    Tell them stop lighting the dump. They killing us in the west and carrot bay capoons bay ling bay
  • Lb (17/06/2024, 08:57) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Public officers have a duty to serve their country and do what is in the best interest of the country, not what is best for themselves.
  • Firefly (26/06/2024, 16:04) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Trying to locate a guy in Road town Tortola goes by the name of Skeezer contact via whatsapp (1-784-491-4540) if you have contact details for him. Thanks


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