The Ministry of Health & Wellness notes the recent increase in respiratory illnesses and wishes to advise the public that the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
The COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) together with influenza B, influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the predominant respiratory viruses in circulation in Jamaica and can be credited for the increase in respiratory infections being observed at this time.
Influenza (flu) and RSV usually cause seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses in Jamaica and other countries annually. Weekly visits to public health facilities for influenza-like illnesses have increased in the under 5 years and the 5-59 years age categories. Admissions for severe acute respiratory illnesses have also increased in the past two weeks.
COVID-19
As at April 17, 2023, there were 154,740 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Jamaica and 3,536 deaths. The seven-day average positivity rate as at April 15, 2023 was 6.8%. The highly transmissible Omicron is the COVID-19 variant that is currently circulating in Jamaica. The last batches of sequencing done that were reported in March and April showed its subvariants BA.4.6 and BA.2, XBB.1.5 to be most prevalent.
Globally, as of April 12, 2023, there have been 762,791,152 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 6,897,025 deaths. Globally, XBB.1.5 continues to be the most prevalent variant.
High-risk Populations
The respiratory viruses that are currently in circulation can cause complications such as pneumonia, sinus, ear and blood infections. These viruses can also worsen chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease. Persons at highest risk of these complications are infants and young children, adults 60 years and older, pregnant women, and persons with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie has reminded members of the public to adhere to all protocols to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses. “These include handwashing and sanitization, wearing of masks, sneezing and coughing etiquette, especially when in public spaces. All eligible persons should also avail themselves of the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, especially the vulnerable populations, including the elderly, the young, pregnant women and healthcare workers.”
“Persons who are ill with mild symptoms should practice mask wearing, hand washing, hand sanitizing and stay away from other persons, especially vulnerable individuals. They should ensure they are drinking fluids and have adequate rest. Persons with persistent or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention, so that treatment can commence at its earliest,” the CMO added.
Persons are, too, encouraged to practice a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating healthy and having adequate rest and relaxation. This will boost the immune system making it less likely for individuals to be affected by the circulating viruses. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.