PRESS RELEASE
FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH
AND HUMAN SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Monday, 2 June 2025: The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the public that it is closely monitoring the recently identified SARS-CoV-2 variant NB.1.8.1, which has been designated as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This classification calls for enhanced monitoring and surveillance, though current evidence indicates that the public health risk remains low.
Through regular testing of respiratory illnesses by the National Public Health Laboratory and genomic surveillance conducted in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and its Medical Microbiology Laboratory (CMML), the Turks and Caicos Islands continues to actively monitor for COVID-19 variants, including NB.1.8.1. These measures help ensure timely detection and response to any potential developments.
Protecting Your Health and Our Community
The Ministry reminds all residents and visitors of the importance of maintaining general infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, especially in areas where respiratory illnesses are circulating. These include:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using hand sanitiser when on the go
- Wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces
- Practising respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes
- Staying home when feeling unwell and avoiding close contact with others
- Ensure vaccination is up to date, particularly for COVID-19 and influenza. Influenza vaccinations are available at Primary Health Care Clinics across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone in your care experiences:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or difficulty waking up
- Persistent fever or other severe symptoms
Protecting Vulnerable Groups
Extra care should be taken to protect those at higher risk of severe illness, including:
- Older adults (60+ years)
- People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma
- Pregnant women
- Individuals who are immunocompromised
Caregivers and family members are encouraged to ensure that vulnerable individuals are up to date with vaccinations and are supported in minimising exposure to illness.
The Ministry of Health will continue to keep the public informed as more data becomes available and reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of everyone in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
For further updates, please visit our Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
