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HEALTH PROTOCOLS ACTIVATED AFTER GLOBAL MONKEYPOX ANNOUNCEMENT

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PRESS RELEASE

Ministry of Health & Wellness

 

 

The Bahamas, August 22, 2024 – Emergency response protocols at the Ministry of Health & Wellness have been activated following the declaration of Monkey pox or M-pox outbreaks in Africa.  On Wednesday August 14th, 2024 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global emergency in response to the rapid spread of the virus across the African continent and a newly reported case in Sweden.

Minister of Health & Wellness the Honourable Dr. Michael R. Darville today confirmed that protocols and response measures to protect against the spread of M-pox in the country have been activated and that quarantine measures and modalities are in place. The Ministry he said also retains antivirals, and the M-pox vaccine for persons seeking preventative treatment or who may be high risk. “We also would wish to note that we are now able to test for Monkeypox in country via the National Reference Library (NRL). This significantly reduces wait times on samples and offers the opportunity to rule out or treat persons presenting with symptoms,” he said. The vaccines, the Health & Wellness Minister added are available free of charge at any public clinic.

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies the following individuals as high risk but not exclusively; gay, bisexual, men who have sex with other men (MSM) or individuals with multiple sexual partners. Other persons at risk of exposure include laboratory personnel performing diagnostics testing and designated response team members.

Symptoms of Mpox include skin rash/lesions, fever, headache, backache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and exhaustion. Symptoms can last two (2) to four (4) weeks. The death rate associated with the disease is low, ranging between three to six per cent of persons infected. The public is encouraged to adhere to safety protocols for Mpox which include: washing your hands properly and often with soap and water, using an alcohol based hand sanitizer, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly, and maintaining physical distance from others, particularly if you feel ill. If you suspect that you or someone you know has Monkeypox, contact your primary health care provider or nearest public health community clinic to be evaluated. Information can be obtained by contacting the National Communicable Disease Surveillance Unit, Mondays – Fridays, 9:00am – 5:00pm at telephone numbers 604-9097 or 604-9091; or after hours at 376-3809, 376-7143, 376-9907, or 814-6892.

Bahamas News

BNT Releases 2023-2024 Impact Report Highlighting Conservation Achievements  

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January 20th, 2024 – Nassau, Bahamas – The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) proudly announces the release of its 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report, which documents key conservation milestones achieved from January 2023 to June 2024.

Highlights from the report include: completion of the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan  – a comprehensive roadmap to guide the organization’s efforts over the next five years; the declaration of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera as the country’s 33rd national park; advancements in critical scientific research and the creation of conservation plans aimed at protecting endangered species; major infrastructure improvements in national parks, enhancing visitor access and recreational opportunities; and new strategic partnerships with local and national organizations for collaborative national park management.

“The past 18 months have been a pivotal chapter for the BNT,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director of The Bahamas National Trust. “With the unwavering support of our members, donors, and partners, we’ve expanded our national park system, advanced critical conservation efforts, made major infrastructure improvements in national parks, and connected thousands of Bahamians to their parks. These achievements underscore the power of collaboration and inspire us to continue building a future where people and nature thrive together.”

Looking to the future, the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan prioritizes enhanced park management, tackling climate resilience, addressing invasive species, and strengthening community partnerships to ensure the sustainability of The Bahamas’ national parks.

The Bahamas National Trust extends heartfelt thanks to its supporters for making these achievements possible, and invites everyone to explore the full 2023-2024 Impact Report on its website at https://bnt.bs/2023-2024-impact-report/.

To learn more about the BNT’s role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs, and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Bahamas News

Exclusive Offer Unlocks $300 in Instant Savings for the Ultimate Winter Escape to The Islands of The Bahamas

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The Bahamas, January 19, 2025 – From January 13 to February 28, 2025, travelers can book a 4-night (or longer) air-inclusive vacation to The Islands of The Bahamas and enjoy an exclusive $300 instant savings at participating hotels and resorts. Stays are valid from January 14 to June 30, 2025, making it the perfect time to swap snow for sand. Terms and conditions apply.

“The Bahamas has seen tremendous growth in visitors, and this offer underscores our commitment to expanding tourism as a key driver of economic growth,” said the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, The Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “By offering an exceptional value to global travelers, we’re not only inviting visitors to explore our diverse islands but also supporting local businesses and fostering sustained economic development across The Bahamas.”

Booking a 4-night (or longer) air-inclusive vacation package with participating tour operators guarantees instant $300 savings, plus the opportunity to combine this offer with other deals for even more value. Travelers can also inquire about added perks like bonus nights, spa credits, and airport transfers when booking through participating tour operators.

Latina Duncombe, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, added, “Through our partnerships with international travel providers, we are creating opportunities for visitors to seamlessly explore the unique attractions, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty that make The Bahamas truly exceptional.”

The islands of The Bahamas is the ultimate winter getaway, where adventure, luxury, and relaxation come together for an unforgettable escape from the cold. Take advantage of these major savings by visiting: Bahamas.com/300-off.

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Freeport Health Campus development, progressing steadily

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By DANIELLE ROLLON

Bahamas Information Services

 

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas — The Government of The Bahamas is committed to improving healthcare facilities throughout The Bahamas, with steady progress being made on the state-of-the-art Freeport Health Campus.  With construction set in three phases, the Freeport Health Campus, when completed, will be a major development for Grand Bahama, providing comprehensive and essential healthcare services for all — citizens, residents, visitors, and those arriving on the new Celebration Cay.

Phase one of the project — a 60,000-square-foot clinic — is set for completion in late 2025, according to the Minister of Health and Wellness, the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville.  “The Freeport Health Campus is more than just a building; it is an embodiment of our collective vision for accessible, high-quality healthcare. Imagine a place where families can come together to receive a multitude of essential services, all under one roof — a hub of healing, equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by compassionate professionals dedicated to the well-being of our community,” said Dr. Darville.

With these ongoing improvements and the upcoming completion of phase one, the Freeport Health Campus is poised to see a significant boost in healthcare services in Grand Bahama, supporting the health and well-being of the community for years to come.

(BIS Photos/ Andrew Miller)

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