Respiratory illness surges, claims two lives

As is not uncommon at this time of the year, a growing rise in cases of respiratory illness has been noted, especially in adults in Barbados.

Over the past four weeks, numbers ranged from 14 to 24, up to 39 in the week ending December 12, 2025, some of whom have been hospitalised.

Among the hospitalised, two acute deaths were recorded up to December 12; one is a known asthmatic.

Expected numbers would be no more than six to eight cases per week. The main causes identified have been the Influenzas (AH3N2 or H1N1 or Influenza B) and the respiratory syncytial virus, RSV. A few cases of COVID-19 and the common-cold virus were also identified.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness advises that it is important for Barbadians to continue to practise good respiratory hygiene, especially when interacting with vulnerable persons, including the elderly, as this is the most effective way of reducing the transmission of respiratory viruses. Masks should be worn when visiting healthcare institutions. Masks may be worn by vulnerable persons in crowded areas.

These practices also include washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and drying them with disposable tissue. If soap and water are not available, the use of an alcohol-based hand sanitiser is recommended.

Health officials also advise people to keep unwashed hands away from the eyes, nose and mouth, and to generally avoid touching these areas as germs can enter the body this way.

The Ministry also reminds the public to cover the nose and mouth with tissue when coughing or sneezing. Alternatively, persons should cough or sneeze into the inner side of the elbow. Used tissues should be discarded in a bin or a tied plastic bag.

Providers are being asked to check oxygen saturations in ill persons, especially those with asthma, and refer those with low saturations. Providers are also reminded to obtain nasopharyngeal swabs to verify the infecting agent.

As in prior years, persons at risk for severe illness from influenza illness (persons with asthma, diabetes, or other NCDs) are advised to take their maintenance medications as prescribed.

(Statement by Ministry of Health and Wellness)