Belmopan. December 13, 2017. The Ministry of Health informs the public that over the past few weeks there has been an increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). The Ministry has been informed by officials from Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (KHMHA) that they are seeing this increase at that hospital.
The KHMHA noted that children make up over 70 percent of the cases. The Ministry of Health, however, has not seen any increase in reported data through the Belize Health Information System (BHIS). The Ministry has partnered with KHMHA to further investigate this increase and awaits laboratory results to assist in establishing the specific type of virus.
The Ministry reminds the public that we are currently in the influenza season. One of the most effective ways to prevent the disease or a severe outcome from the illness is vaccination. The elderly population and persons with certain medical conditions that can contribute to the severity of the flu are advised to get a flu vaccine. While health facilities continue to manage persons suffering from the flu, it is important to note that the flu can be prevented through the following measures:
1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water.
2. Cough and sneeze into your sleeve and not your hands.
3. Keep your hands away from your face.
4. Keep common surface areas (such as doorknobs and counters) clean and disinfected.
5. If ill, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from spreading the infection.
If symptoms continue or become more severe, visit your nearest health facility.
A health and wellness message from your Ministry of Health
For More Information contact: Dr. Marvin Manzanero
Director of Health Services, Ministry of Health, Belmopan 822-2325
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