As the flu season takes hold, health officials in the Virgin Islands are calling on early childhood facilities to enforce strict hand hygiene measures to curb the spread of common childhood illnesses.

Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Henrietta Alexander, has warned that contagious diseases such as influenza, the common cold, chickenpox, and hand, foot, and mouth disease tend to peak between November and March, posing a heightened risk in nurseries where young children are in close contact.

“Many of these illnesses spread through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing,” Ms Alexander said. “Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent transmission.”

Authorities are advising nurseries to ensure frequent handwashing among staff and children, particularly before meals, after using the toilet, and after handling shared toys or objects. They are also stressing the importance of regular cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, including tables, door handles, and bathroom facilities. Additionally, parents are being urged to keep unwell children at home until they have fully recovered.

The Environmental Health Division has pledged to continue providing guidance and support to early childhood facilities, helping to implement hygiene and sanitation measures aimed at reducing potential outbreaks.

For further information or assistance, individuals are encouraged to contact the Environmental Health Division at 468-5110.

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima warns that the recent U.S. decision to halt foreign aid could lead to a sixfold increase in new HIV infections by 2029, potentially resulting in millions of deaths and the emergence of more resistant strains of the virus.

The U.S. administration’s 90-day suspension of foreign assistance, initiated by President Donald Trump as part of an “America First” policy, has disrupted numerous global health initiatives. This pause affects programs funded by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a cornerstone in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

Byanyima stressed the gravity of the situation, stating that without U.S. support, projections indicate a significant surge in HIV cases and related fatalities. She urged the U.S. government to reconsider its stance, highlighting the potential global health crisis that could ensue.

The aid freeze has already led to the closure of several organisations reliant on PEPFAR funding, particularly in Africa. The United Nations AIDS program reported that many such entities have ceased operations due to the funding halt and a lack of clarity regarding exemptions.

In response to the suspension, advocacy groups have taken legal action against the administration. Public Citizen, a liberal-leaning organization, filed a lawsuit challenging the legality of the aid freeze, arguing that it endangers lives worldwide. The lawsuit represents organisations severely impacted by the funding halt, including those providing healthcare and humanitarian assistance.

The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has defended the pause, asserting that it is necessary to review foreign aid spending in alignment with the administration’s policies. However, critics warn that this move could damage the U.S.’s reliability as a global partner and potentially push aid-receiving countries towards rivals like China.

The situation remains fluid, with global health experts and humanitarian organisations closely monitoring the developments. The potential resurgence of HIV/AIDS underscores the critical importance of sustained international support and the far-reaching consequences of policy decisions on global health initiatives.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, the Ministry of Health and Social Development has raised concerns over a rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across the Territory, urging residents to take precautions, get tested, and “love safely.”

Public Health Officer Renee Leonard highlighted the importance of awareness and prevention amid the increase in STI cases. “Our goal is to educate the public on what is happening and how they can protect themselves,” Leonard said.

The Ministry is using the occasion to reinforce its “wrap it up” message, promoting safe sexual practices. “Valentine’s Day is widely recognised as a ‘day of love’, making it an ideal time to highlight the importance of responsible choices,” Leonard added.

As part of a week-long public awareness initiative, the Ministry of Health has partnered with local medical providers, Eureka Medical and Sapphire Health, to encourage testing. Special Valentine’s Day offers will be available for those wishing to check their sexual health status.

“We appreciate our partners for supporting this important initiative,” Leonard said. “Knowing your status is key to reducing the spread of STIs in the Virgin Islands.”

She also urged residents to take responsibility for their sexual health by practising safe behaviours. “Be faithful to one partner, use barrier contraceptives, stay informed, and take ownership of your well-being. Valentine’s Day should be a celebration of love, but it is equally important to make informed and responsible choices.”

The initiative will also include a special February edition of the Ministry of Health’s newsletter, providing vital information about STIs. Additional resources such as brochures, flyers, radio advertisements, and a GIS radio report will be shared throughout the week.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains committed to improving public health and safeguarding the well-being of the Virgin Islands community.