Health
Ministry of Health Urges Parents to Be Vigilant in Preventing the Spread of Communicable Diseases
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands 25th March 2025 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services is actively monitoring reports of students exhibiting symptoms of vomiting and or diarrhea, and chickenpox across several schools. These communicable diseases, which can spread from person to person or from animals to people, may be caused by either viral or bacterial infections.
Given the high rate of transmission in school settings, the Ministry urges parents to remain vigilant. If a child is showing any symptoms, it is crucial that they stay home and seek medical advice before returning to school.
Chickenpox: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention
Chickenpox, caused by the varicella zoster virus, is highly contagious. The virus can spread 1-2 days before the rash appears and continues to be contagious until the rash scabs over, which typically occurs 5-6 days after onset. Symptoms often appear 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.
Key Symptoms Before the Rash:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
Common Rash Symptoms:
- Itchy, fluid-filled blisters that later scab over
- Initial rash may appear on the chest, back, and face, spreading to other parts of the body, including the mouth, eyes, and genital area
- The rash typically scabs over within 5-7 days
While most healthy individuals recover without complications, certain groups may face complications which can include:
- Bacterial infections of the skin
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Brain swelling (encephalitis)
- Bloodstream infections (sepsis)
- Dehydration
Those at higher risk include individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and newborns.
Important Guidelines:
- Children with chickenpox should stay home until all spots have scabbed over, usually about 5 days after the rash appears.
- Effective home care includes:
- Drink plenty fluid
- Taking pain relief medication like paracetamol/tylenol (avoid aspirin and ibuprofen)
- Preventing scratching by trimming fingernails and using socks or mittens on the hands
- Applying cooling gels or creams for comfort
- Bathing in cool water and patting the skin dry
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing
Vomiting and Diarrhea: Prevention and Care
Parents of children experiencing vomiting and/or diarrhea are advised to keep them at home until they are fully recovered and symptom-free for at least 48 hours. Dehydration is a serious risk during these illnesses, so parents should be alert for the following warning signs:
- Decreased urination
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dizziness upon standing
- Crying with few or no tears
- Unusual drowsiness or irritability
If these symptoms arise, parents are strongly encouraged to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional promptly.
General Hygiene Measures to Prevent Illness
To reduce the spread of illness, the Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of regular handwashing with soap and water—especially before meals, after using the bathroom, and before preparing food. This simple practice significantly lowers the transmission of germs that cause various illnesses, including vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.
For those caring for sick individuals, regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces using disinfectants, such as bleach, is essential to help prevent the spread of germs.
The Ministry of Health is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Education to closely monitor the situation and take necessary actions.
Parents are encouraged to educate their children about proper hand hygiene and other preventive measures to protect themselves and others from these communicable diseases.