No cause for alarm, says CMO amid reports of outbreak in China

Abarmid growing concerns over reports of a respiratory illness outbreak in China, Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George said Tuesday that there is no need to panic. He said the Ministry of Health and Wellness has received no reports from the Pan American Health Organisation or the World Health Organisation confirming any unusual surge in these illnesses.

In addition, Dr George said, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has indicated that there are currently no credible reports to support the recent claims of an unusual surge in illness involving various viruses, including Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), in China.

Dr George reminded Barbadians that during the winter period, also known as the flu season, an increase in respiratory illness among both locals and tourists can be expected – just as an increase in influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses, are common at this time in the United States.

The chief medical officer stated that Barbados usually sees an uptick in influenza cases at this time of year. He also said that according to CARPHA, at the end of December 2024, respiratory illness activity in the Caribbean had a mixed pattern with a slight increase in influenza H1N1, declining RSV, and continued low levels of COVID-19. 

“In Barbados, there has been a slight increase in respiratory illness cases, as is expected,” a statement from the ministry said. “The public health laboratory has detected a mixture over the period including influenza, RSV, Rhino virus (common cold) and HMPV. These illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms including cough, fever, and nasal congestion. In some cases, they can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.”

The chief medical officer sought to assure that the detection of respiratory diseases is not a cause for panic. Additionally, he indicated that HMPV is a common virus, which is usually associated with mild illness.

Dr George said the best ways persons can protect themselves from becoming ill or avoid spreading any respiratory illnesses are by practising good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and sanitising, covering sneezes or coughs, and keeping frequently touched surfaces clean. 

He added it is also helpful to avoid close contact with persons who are already sick, or to stay at home when sick, noting that elderly persons, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems should continue to exercise care during flu season. 

Dr George said the Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue to monitor the situation regarding the development of respiratory illnesses nationally and globally and keep the public informed. 

(BGIS/BT)