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Health Alert: Rise in Seasonal Illnesses and Mosquito-Borne Diseases
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is issuing a public reminder to stay vigilant as the seasonal uptick in fever and respiratory conditions is anticipated.
Dr Ronald Georges, Acting Chief Medical Officer (CMO), emphasised that residents, business owners, daycare operators, school administrators, and marina managers should remain alert. “At this time of year, we typically see an increase in fever and respiratory conditions, and that trend is currently evident,” Dr Georges noted.
He highlighted the dual threat posed by heavy rains and unmanaged mosquito breeding sites, which can exacerbate the situation through the transmission of Dengue and Chikungunya. “It’s crucial for individuals to eliminate mosquito breeding sites around their premises,” Dr Georges advised.
The Ministry also advises residents to refrain from attending work or school if they are experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms and to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe. Dr Georges pointed out the ongoing concern of dengue fever in Latin America and the Caribbean, with continuous transmission in the region.
“Similarly, other respiratory conditions like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza, Coronavirus, and other flu-like viruses are still circulating,” Dr Georges added.
The public is urged to maintain proper hand hygiene, cover coughs, and adhere to sanitation practices to minimise the spread of respiratory diseases.
Additionally, residents should ensure that all loose containers and standing water are removed to prevent mosquito breeding. Dr Georges stressed that reducing mosquito breeding sites will significantly aid Environmental Health Officers in controlling vectors in the Territory. Reported dengue cases are monitored by the Environmental Health Division, and affected individuals can expect follow-up actions from the Ministry of Health.
The community is encouraged to use the Government’s BVIGOVREPORTIT app to report vector control issues requiring a response from the Waste Management Department or the Environmental Health Division.
As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.
A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.
Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.
“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”
This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.
The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.
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