Health Ministry urges preparation as Hurricane Beryl nears

The Ministry of Health and Wellness is advising persons with chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension to ensure that they have an adequate supply of medication as they continue to prepare for the impending inclement weather conditions.

Yesterday, Hurricane Beryl strengthened into a Category 4 system and is on a path to Jamaica.

"If they have to evacuate their homes, they must ensure that they take their medications with them to their place of shelter," the ministry said in a statement. Pregnant women who are within one month of their delivery date were advised to relocate to family or friends, who are in proximity to a hospital or delivery centre.

The ministry recommended that, if persons have to evacuate their homes, certain items should be taken when disaster threatens. These include: medical supplies, including prescriptions; disaster supplies, including flashlights, batteries, radio, first aid kit, and bottled water; clothing and bedding; sanitation supplies, such as diapers and toilet tissue; non-perishable foods, including canned food; special foods, such as for diabetics or babies; and important family documents, including birth certificates and passports.

Food items are not to be stored with chemicals such as kerosene, bleach, detergents and insect sprays, and food items should be kept in a dry and cool place.

"Store packages of sugar, flour, rice and crackers in their original package or in tightly closed containers," the ministry recommended. "Store water in a clean, covered container. The lid of the container should fit tightly to prevent mosquito breeding. Do not use containers which have previously stored harmful chemicals. Use a clean container, with a handle, to 'dip up' water from storage."