Health ministry expects rise in respiratory viruses

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is reminding the public that there is an expected increase in the circulation of respiratory viruses and an increase in persons seeking medical care.

This is due to the time of year which sees the island become cooler. The ministry noted that the country is already experiencing overcrowding in hospital emergency departments as the health system also manages the dengue outbreak and the rise in cases due to trauma and uncontrolled chronic diseases, including mental illnesses associated with the holiday season.

The public is therefore asked to take all the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families safe. These include practising healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate rest; taking medications regularly and keeping appointments for regular check-ups and necessary investigations; paying attention to situations that can lead to interpersonal violence and to avoid or de-escalate conflicts, and taking precautions on the roads to avoid accidents or injuries such as not drinking or using any substance that will affect mental status while driving, wearing seat belts, and adhering to the rules of the road.

Additionally, Jamaicans are being urged to take precautions to prevent respiratory illnesses such as getting the flu vaccine, wearing masks where appropriate, including in crowded situations or when having any respiratory symptoms, staying home if ill, seeking medical care early if symptoms are severe or persistent, and wash and sanitise hands frequently.

Persons who visit our healthcare facilities are reminded that there still is a mask policy for healthcare facilities.