Government
Caye Caulker asks central government for more assistance in medical emergencies
In November 2022, Caye Caulker inaugurated a new polyclinic to improve medical services on La Isla Cariñosa. This infrastructure was more than welcomed but did not solve the Hicaqueños problems with medical emergencies. On Sunday, November 5th, Chairlady Seleny Villanueva-Pott reported that her team struggled to help transport patients to Belize City via private boats. As such, they hope the central government will assist the village council with additional resources to cope with the challenges related to such medical emergencies.
Health
Belize awarded PAHO’s Malaria Champions of the Americas
Belize has been honored with the 2023 Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Malaria Champions of the Americas prize. Belize was honored with the prestigious recognition on Friday, November 3rd, in the United States capital, Washington, DC. Other countries also receiving the award included the Dominican Republic, Suriname, the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, and the Brazilian city of Manaus.
Health
San Pedro Lions Club hosts diabetes wellness day
The San Pedro Lions Club continues its hard work on the island, and on Saturday, November 4th, it hosted its annual Diabetes Wellness Day. The general public was invited to take advantage of an array of free, high-quality health services, including, but not limited to, glucose and blood pressure testing, brushing and flossing demonstrations, drug information, and counseling. Flu and papillomavirus vaccines were also available, along with medication and massages for diabetic patients.
Health
MoHW and Taiwan Sign Public Health Projects Agreement
On October 31, the Ministry of Health & Wellness and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) signed an agreement for the Strengthening Metabolic Chronic Disease Prevention and Control Systems Project. Hon. Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health & Wellness, and H.E. Lily Li-Wen Hsu, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), signed the new agreement on behalf of Belize and Taiwan, respectively.
Health
Belize Emerges as Winner of the Caribbean Immunization Surveillance Award
At the end of the 37th Meeting of Caribbean Immunization managers held from 30-31 October, Belize emerged as the winner of the surveillance award presented by the Pan American Health Organization. Taking second and third place respectively, was Guyana and Barbados and the Henry Smith Award for most improved immunization coverage in 2022 was awarded to the Turks & Caicos Islands.
Government
Government of Belize Removes Fees in Public Hospitals, Promoting Universal Healthcare Access
The Government of Belize has approved the removal of all fees charged in public hospitals, a pivotal decision aimed at ensuring universal access to quality healthcare. This move eliminates financial barriers and enhances healthcare accessibility for all citizens, particularly low-income families.
Health
Belize develops action plan to strengthen governance and improve public health capacities through an emphasis on the Essential Public Health Functions
Since May 2023, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) has been undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of the Essential Public Health Functions (EPHFs) in Belize. As part of the third phase in this process, the MoHW and relevant stakeholders are meeting to develop an action plan that will improve the EPHFs.
Health
Flu infections continue to rise on the island
San Pedro Town has been experiencing a wave of acute respiratory infections (flu), which in some cases have reportedly been associated with the COVID-19 virus. Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II has been busy tending to many islanders suffering from flu. As such, residents are encouraged to use face masks in enclosed areas and seek medical attention when feeling unwell.
