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.

Governor Daniel Pruce and his personal security officer attended the BVI Red Cross Men’s Health Fair today, February 7, as the government and health officials continue efforts to promote early detection and preventive care.

The event, held at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on Tortola, offers free health screenings for men over 40, encouraging them to prioritise regular checkups. Organisers stress that early diagnosis of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

The health fair is part of a broader push to address men’s health concerns in the territory, where studies indicate that men are less likely than women to seek medical attention. The initiative aligns with global public health campaigns that urge early intervention as a means of reducing long-term medical complications.

Director of the BVI Red Cross, Stacy Lloyd reiterated the importance of routine medical evaluations and lifestyle changes, including balanced nutrition and regular exercise, to improve overall well-being. The BVI Red Cross, alongside healthcare professionals, provided on-site consultations and distributed educational materials.

The free screenings will continue on Saturday, 8 February, as organisers aim to expand participation and reinforce the importance of proactive healthcare in the community.