MoH Encourages Public to Follow Measures to Reduce Impact of Respiratory Illnesses.
Over the last 14 days there has been a decrease in hospitalisations and deaths due to the COVID-19 Virus.
The observation was made by the Ministry of Health (MoH), Wellness and Elderly Affairs, which has since has called on the public to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses by following these measures:
· Maintain a healthy lifestyle, through diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress and toxic habits
· Ensure compliance by taking prescribed medication if you suffer from any chronic health conditions
· Strengthen sanitary measures at home and work and maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing
· Wear a face mask when presenting flu like symptoms, and
· Consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen
“All persons with chronic health conditions are strongly advised to wear a facemask when in public, in crowded conditions, and avoid contact with others who are sick. Personal responsibility is important at this time,” noted the Ministry in a statement.
Noting that facemasks are available at all public health facilities to patients who may need, the MoH added that COVID-19 PCR and rapid tests are available free of charge to the public at the various Wellness Centers, Community Hospitals and Polyclinic.
“The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The COVID-19 Janssen vaccine is also available and can be taken as a booster, especially for persons with risks factors or chronic illness,” stated the MoH in a press statement.
The Ministry of Health says it will continue to monitor the cases of Respiratory illnesses on island. And that it will continue to manage persons presenting with flu like symptoms at the Emergency Departments, Wellness Centers and private doctors’ offices due to new COVID-19 variants, Influenza A and B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus.