TCI News
World Obesity Day 2018 – “End Weight Stigma”
#Providenciales, October 13, 2018 – Turks and Caicos – World Obesity Day was for the first time observed in 2015 to bring more awareness 
and to stimulate action which would support practical solutions to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight and to reverse the obesity crisis. The day is observed on 11th October every year. This day also aims to encourage advocacy, improve policies and share experiences. The theme this year is “End Weight Stigma”. This type of stigma is one of the last types of socially accepted discrimination.
The risk for serious health conditions and disease increases in persons who have obesity compared to persons who have a healthy or normal weight. Mrs. Robinson, Director of the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit within the Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services stated; “We have to be more sensitive and supportive to persons who struggle with their weight.”
The obesity epidemic is a complex problem with no simple or single solution. To help prevent obesity persons should exercise regularly, have a healthy diet and decide to make a lifestyle change and not think of being on a diet. The Health Promotion and Advocacy have implemented a number of programmes within churches, communities and schools to educate and bring awareness and assist persons to make healthier choices.
To assist and motivate persons who may be struggling with their weight, a testimonial was provided by Ms. Jacqueline Henry.
At the end of July 2016, I noticed that I was extremely exhausted and began to experience chest and breast pains. On July 28th, I visited the doctor where a series of examinations, such as blood work and a breast ultrasound was administered. During follow-up on Tuesday, 2nd August, the doctor concluded that I was extremely obese and I needed to lose some weight in order for my body to function normally. August 3rd, I had a consultation with the therapist. I discovered that I was weighing in at 450 lbs., which was very shocking and emotional for me as I realized that I was only 50 lbs. away from 500 lbs. The following week I visited the nutritionist and this is where my journey began. At first, only my family knew of my healthy lifestyle changes. I was ashamed of how heavy I had become. On the 8th of September I had my first weigh in and discovered I had lost 17 lbs. This motivated me.”
“I began consuming healthy portions of controlled breakfasts, lunches, dinners and snacks. I drank eight glasses of water daily and occasionally I replaced a meal with natural juices consisting of fruits and vegetables. I wanted to give up at the beginning stage. I felt restricted in the sense of food choices because I was a “sodaholic” and there were many foods that I had to eliminate but, when I began to look at this journey as a lifestyle change 
instead of a diet, the journey seemed easier as I wanted to live a longer life and to be comfortable in my own skin. I must thank the Lord for blessing me with the spirit of determination and dedication. The Lord has made all of this possible.”
The Minister of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services added; “Ms. Henry’s journey is a remarkable one and should be commended. Her commitment and determination have brought about success and positive results towards a healthier lifestyle. I hope that Ms. Henry’s testimony is an encouragement to all who struggle with their weight and is proof that you too can do it.”
For more information on obesity and how to adopt a healthy lifestyle, contact the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit on 338 2772.
Release: TCIG
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 25 April 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services is issuing a public advisory regarding a recent increase in chicken pox cases, particularly within school communities in the regions of Grand Turk and Providenciales. The Ministry is actively monitoring the situation and is working closely with affected schools to provide support and education aimed at preventing further spread of the virus.
Chicken pox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a highly contagious infection characterized by a distinctive rash of itchy red spots or blisters. Transmission occurs via droplets, aerosols, or direct contact with respiratory secretions, and almost always produces clinical disease in susceptible individuals. While mostly a mild disorder in childhood, varicella tends to be more severe in adults. It may be fatal, especially in neonates and in immunocompromised persons. The Ministry urges parents, teachers, and the general public to remain vigilant and familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of chicken pox, which may include:
- Rash: The primary symptom of chicken pox is a rash that typically begins as small red spots, which then develop into fluid-filled blisters over several days.
- Fever: Children with chicken pox may experience a mild to moderate fever, often preceding the appearance of the rash.
- Fatigue: Some individuals may feel generally unwell, tired, or lethargic.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat may accompany other symptoms of chicken pox.
Management aims to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications and may include:
- drinking plenty of fluid (try popsicles if your child is not drinking) to avoid dehydration.
- taking paracetamol to help with pain and discomfort.
- cut your child’s fingernails and put socks on their hands at night to stop them scratching.
- use cooling creams or gels e.g. Calamine lotion
- speak to your health care provider about using antihistamine medicine to help itching.
- bathe in cool water and pat the skin dry (do not rub)
- dress in loose clothes.
- do not use ibuprofen unless advised to do so by a doctor, as it may cause serious skin infections.
- do not give aspirin to children under 16.
- do not go near newborn babies, or anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, as chickenpox can be dangerous for them.
- do not scratch the spots, as scratching can cause scarring.
To mitigate the spread of chicken pox within schools and communities, the Ministry emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene habits, including frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
In the event that a child exhibits symptoms of chicken pox, parents and caregivers are advised to keep them at home and seek medical attention promptly. A sick leave for a period of 14 days is usually given. After the 14 day sick leave period, the individual must return to the physician or the public health nurse at one of the primary care clinics to obtain a fit for work or school certificate allowing them re-entry back into school or work. Anyone returning earlier than this time or without this certificate should not be allowed in school so as to prevent spread to other children. Additionally, it is crucial to inform school authorities to prevent further transmission among classmates and staff.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all citizens, and will continue to work diligently to address this current situation. For further information and guidance on chicken pox prevention and management, please visit Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Health and Human Services Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.
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