The Environmental Health Division within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition urges the public to conserve water and ensure that all water harvesting and storage practices are carried out safely, in light of the current dry conditions and the increasing risk of water supply shortages on island. This is necessary to ensure the protection of the health of the population.

Members of the public who engage in the practice of water harvesting are advised to ensure that roof gutters and downpipes used to collect rainwater are kept clean and free of debris, bird droppings and other contaminants. Also, to reduce bacteria and other contaminants, they are encouraged to employ a first-flush system on roof gutters and downpipes. In addition, water storage containers including drums, buckets and tanks should be covered or fitted with tight-fitting lids or screens to prevent vector breeding; particularly mosquitoes and rats.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition confirms its first case of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in Saint Lucia since 2021. The individual was hospitalized for four days and received supportive care. He showed clinical improvement and has since been discharged home in stable condition, having made a full recovery. At this time, no additional cases of the Chikungunya Virus have been identified in Saint Lucia. Currently, the Ministry of Health is implementing measures to prevent further spread of the Chikungunya virus in country.

The common symptoms of the virus include fever, severe joint pain, headache, muscle pain, and rash. Testing for the chikungunya virus is available in Saint Lucia and the Ministry of Health urges anyone who may be experiencing signs and symptoms to seek care at their nearest Community Wellness Centre.

In the headlines: Saint Lucia calls for regional coordination to tackle the ongoing threat of Sargassum and registration for the second-hand surgery mission to Saint Lucia closes March 6th.

For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucia joins the global community in observing World Obesity Day on March 4th under the theme “One billion reasons to act on obesity.” with a call for action to strengthen our policies, transform our environments, and support healthier lifestyles for our people in Saint Lucia. This creates an opportunity for the government, schools, workplaces, families, and communities to work together to reverse the trend of obesity and build a healthier nation.

In the headlines: The Government of Saint Lucia launches a consultation to assess the state of the economy and Universal Healthcare makes critical advancement with two major milestones.

For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The 50th Summit of CARICOM ends in St. Kitts with calls for greater togetherness, and Director General of the OECS links regional cooperation to national development.

For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: Major tax relief for taxpayers as government expands allowances and exempts pensions, and; the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College celebrates 40 years of excellence.

For details on these stories and more, visit www.govt.lc

“No One Is Coming to Save Us.” A powerful message from the OECS Director General headlines this episode of OECS Newlink.

Plus:

✅ Sustainable tourism action moves forward in Grenada

✅ New ECTEL survey highlights digital transformation trends

✅ Grenada boosts seamoss industry capacity

The #OECS is taking action by building resilience and driving growth. #OECSNewlink