Health Ministry urges precaution during Christmas

WHILE THE MINISTRY of Health and the Environment (MOHWE), did not specifically state this, however, it seemed the recent political rallies may have contributed to a spike in the spread of influenza A (H3N2) in St.Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) for 2025.

A release by the ministry’s epidemiology unit reported seven cases of influenza A (H3N2) in SVG for 2025.Two imported cases were identified in January, and five confirmed cases among locals, ages 2 years to 33 years of age, with no known travel history in November 2025.

“These cases bring the total number of influenza cases to 117 including all sub-types,” the ministry said, while advising the public to take all necessary precautionary measures to protect themselves and their family members.

“As the nation prepares for the…Christmas season… of the year, the ministry is urging the public to remain vigilant,” stated a release in which the ministry also had urged a note of caution to the public over the elections period.

“This time of year, typically involves increased gatherings, travel, shopping, Nine Mornings activities, and close interpersonal interactions, all of which elevate the risk of spreading viral infections from person to person.”

It noted that while celebrations are important to the nation’s culture and community life, simple prevention practices can significantly reduce the spread of infections and help protect families and communities.

Among the preventative measures recommended are: wearing a face mask properly in crowded or enclosed spaces if you have flu-like symptoms or are around persons who have those symptoms. Practicing proper hand hygiene, especially when interacting with children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons who are differently-abled.

The MOH also urged the population to “wash hands frequently with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds. In the absence of soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Cover your coughs and sneezes at all times. Stay home if you are sick. Avoid gatherings if you have fever, cough, sore throat, or other flu-like symptoms.

Seek medical advice early if symptoms worsen or do not improve, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home and in the workplace.”

The MOH emphasized that keeping viral infections low during the holiday season requires a collective effort by applying these simple, everyday precautions.