Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Winston De La Haye is urging persons to begin preparations in light of the expected impact of Hurricane Matthew on Jamaica.

“We are appealing to persons to start the preparations such as securing clean water for storage. Water can be purified by boiling or adding small amounts of bleach.  Persons with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases and asthma must ensure that their medication is easily accessible especially in the event of the need for a quick evacuation,” he said

The Chief Medical Officer advises pregnant women, especially those within one month of their delivery date to identify close relatives or friends who are in close proximity to a hospital just in case it becomes necessary to relocate.

The Ministry of Health is also reminding persons to take extra precaution to protect their health and to listen to advisories as we prepare for this impending Hurricane.

The latest release from the Office of Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management (ODPEM) stated that Hurricane Matthew will move through the southern and the central Caribbean Sea through Friday. Thereafter, it could move closer to Jamaica and pose a direct threat to the island.

Individuals who wish to obtain more information may call the Ministry of Health or the nearest health centre. Persons may also visit our website at moh.gov.jm and like and

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