Government
Ministry of Health Issues Guidance on Prevention of Respiratory Infections
#TurksandCaicos, January 18, 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services is issuing a timely reminder to the public about the importance of staying vigilant during the influenza season. Recent trends have indicated an uptick in acute respiratory illness cases within our community. This trend is in keeping with the annual seasonal increase in flu-like illnesses which can be seen as early as September, with a peak between December and February.
Influenza is marked by
- sudden onset of high fever,
- aching muscles,
- headache,
- dry cough,
- sore throat, and
- runny nose
The virus is transmitted easily from person to person via droplets and small particles that are formed when infected people cough or sneeze. Although most individuals recover from flu symptoms within a week without medical intervention, severe illness or fatalities can occur, especially among vulnerable groups such as the very young, elderly, pregnant women, health workers, and those with underlying medical conditions. It is important to remain vigilant for early detection of severe disease and present to your health care provider.
COVID-19 cases are still being identified, and may cause severe illness in people with risk factors and those who are aged over 65 years. While hospitalization rates remain low. The JN.1 variant has become the dominant strain
Residents are encouraged to proactively seek the influenza vaccine, provided free of charge at Primary Health Care Clinics across the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Primary Health Care Departments clinics are well-equipped to provide vaccination services to protect individuals. We are particularly focused on ensuring that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions, have easy access to influenza vaccines. The World Health Organization recommends annual vaccination for;
- pregnant women,
- children aged 6 months to 5 years,
- elderly individuals (65 years and above),
- individuals with chronic medical conditions, and
- health-care workers.
In addition to vaccination, the Ministry of Health and Human Services recommends practical health tips to curb infection spread, including;
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of used tissues in the waste basket. If a tissue is unavailable, cough or sneeze into the upper sleeve or elbow rather than your hands.
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or the duration of singing the birthday song twice. If soap and water are not accessible, utilize an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs often spread when hands come into contact with contaminated surfaces and then touch the face.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work, or school, especially when someone is unwell.
- Avoid close contact with individuals who are unwell.
- If you are sick, maintain a distance from others, particularly those in vulnerable groups, to prevent the transmission of illness.
- If you or your child is experiencing flu-like symptoms, stay home from work, school, and daycare to prevent spreading the illness to others.
- Prioritize ample rest, hydration, nutritious eating, stress management, and physical activity to support overall well-being.
The Honourable Shaun Malcolm, Minister of Health and Human Services urges everyone “to remain committed to promoting a healthy environment, to stay informed and practice good respiratory hygiene to significantly slow the spread of germs. Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the resources and services available such as vaccination and tests to protect yourselves and your loved ones.”