Health Ministry Strengthens Surveillance Amid Global Reports of Spike in Respiratory Illnesses

Local health officials are closely monitoring global reports of heightened respiratory illnesses, particularly in China, while taking steps to strengthen Saint Lucia’s capacity to detect and manage potential cases. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Chief Medical Officer Dr Sharon Belmar-George said that amid the ongoing flu season and increased travel activity, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs has intensified disease surveillance and bolstered local systems to prepare for any respiratory outbreaks. There have been international media reports of a surge in respiratory viruses circulating in China, overwhelming hospital systems and crematories. These cases reportedly involve Influenza A, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Mycoplasma pneumonia, and COVID-19. However, the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has not submitted any official reports to date. Dr Belmar-George pointed out that, Saint Lucia, like the rest of the Caribbean, is in the typical flu season – which spans from October to March – with notable increases in respiratory illnesses among the population. “We are also experiencing peak travel and visitor influx. We note increases in Influenza A, cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 variants,” she stated. “The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the [global] situation and focused on strengthening...