Government
Concerns grow over potential loss of Cuban medical staff in Belize
While some CARICOM member states, including Jamaica, have ended their medical cooperation agreements with Cuba, Belize has yet to decide on the future of the Cuban Medical Brigade currently serving in the country. According to the Ministry of Health and Wellness, there are 94 Cuban medical personnel in Belize, and ending their service could significantly impact the national healthcare system.
Community and Society
San Pedro SDA Churches host ‘Communion in Action’ Health Fair
The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) churches in San Pedro hosted a Community Health Fair on Saturday, March 21st, at Central Park, bringing together residents for a morning focused on health, wellness, and community outreach. The event, held from 9AM to 1PM, was organized by three local congregations, Central Adventist Church, New Horizon, and God is Truth, in observance of Global Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Communion in Action.”
Community and Society
Blood drive boosts emergency supply on Ambergris Caye
The San Pedro Community Blood Donors Group hosted a blood drive on Saturday, March 7th, at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II in San Pedro Town. The event ran from 9AM to 3PM, attracting residents who came out to donate and support the island’s blood supply. By the end of the drive, close to 25 pints of blood had been collected.
Health
San Pedro’s Annual Free Smile Clinic Marks 20 Years of Service
The 2025 annual Free Smile Clinic brought 47 dental volunteers, including oral surgeons and experienced dentists, to San Pedro Town from March 2nd to 5th. The clinic operated Monday through Thursday from 8AM to 3PM, providing services to children from Holy Cross Anglican School and the wider community at the school campus. At the same time, adults received treatment at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. This year marked their 20th anniversary, which offered screenings for tooth decay, dental care education, fluoride treatments, cleanings, fillings, and extractions at no cost.
Health
Cases of Tuberculosis Confirmed in Belize City
On Wednesday, February 18th, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) announced two confirmed cases of tuberculosis (TB) in students aged 10 and 16 in Belize City. The MOHW said the diagnoses were confirmed on February 12th through clinical and laboratory testing. Later that same day, the Government of Belize, via its weekly Cabinet briefing, confirmed an additional case. All patients had undergone treatment and were responding well.
Health
Two Imported Malaria Cases Detected in Southern Belize
While Belize continues to maintain its malaria-free status granted by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) confirmed two malaria cases in the Toledo District on February 17th. The infections are considered imported cases because they were acquired outside Belize.
Health
PAHO Calls for Stronger Cervical Cancer Prevention on World Cancer Day
February 4th marked World Cancer Day, and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is calling for accelerated action to prevent cervical cancer across the Americas, including Belize, where the disease remains a major health threat to women. PAHO is urging countries to strengthen vaccination, screening, and treatment efforts to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health problem by 2030.
Health
Alma Pinelo Promoted to Vice Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard
San Pedro’s very own Alma Pinelo was promoted to Vice Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) during a change of command ceremony held on Thursday, January 29th. The event also marked the appointment of Captain Gregory Soberanis as the new Commandant of the BCG. Soberanis was formally promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral (Lower Half) as he assumed command, taking over from outgoing Commandant Rear Admiral Elton Bennett.
Health
Flu Activity Increases Across Belize, Vaccination Encouraged
San Pedro Town is seeing a noticeable rise in seasonal influenza cases amid a broader surge in respiratory illnesses across Belize. Health authorities report that nationwide flu-related hospitalizations are up by approximately 50% compared with last year, with Influenza A (H1N1) identified as the dominant strain currently circulating.
Health
Health Ministry Emphasizes Importance of Blood Donation in Belize
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has assured the public that the national blood bank remains adequately stocked. The ministry stated that there are currently no shortages of blood, blood products, reagents, or supplies, and emphasized that blood donation drives continue regularly across the country.
Health
Community Unites: San Pedro Blood Drive Group Draws Donors from Across the Cayes
Island Donors Squad (IDS) and Ambergris Hope Hospital (AHH) came together for another successful blood drive on Saturday, January 24th, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event recorded a strong turnout.
