Community and Society
Free Health Clinic Focuses on Diabetes Prevention and Early Detection
A community health clinic was held on Wednesday, June 3rd, from 9:30AM to 3PM at the Lion’s Den. The event brought together the San Pedro Lions Club, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, and the San Pedro Town Council for a day of free medical services and public health education.
Government
Ministry of Health & Wellness and UNICEF Launch Belize’s National Community Health Strategy 2026–2030
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), officially launched Belize’s first National Community Health Strategy 2026–2030, a transformative roadmap aimed at strengthening community-based healthcare and advancing equitable access to quality health services across Belize.
Government
Ministry of Health and Wellness Advisory on Ebola
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) advises the public and travelers at all ports of entry that Belize is initiating heightened public health vigilance in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak affecting parts of East and Central Africa. While no suspected cases have been identified in Belize, the MOHW is ensuring that precautionary measures at points of entry are initiated to protect the population’s health.
Government
San Pedro General Hospital Faces Delays and Rising Construction Costs, but Construction Presses Ahead
Construction of the San Pedro/Caye Caulker General Hospital, south of San Pedro Town, continues amid reports of projected cost overruns. Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez addressed the matter on Wednesday, May 27th, during a site tour showcasing the progress of the anticipated medical facility. While Perez confirmed that additional costs are being discussed, he stated that the projected overrun is nowhere near the reported $15 million. Although he could not provide an exact figure, Perez assured island residents that the state-of-the-art hospital, expected to become the second-largest medical facility in Belize, will be completed with a tentative opening date set for early 2027.
Community and Society
San Pedro Smile Center marks 19 years of free dental care outreach
The San Pedro Smile Center celebrated 19 years of providing free dental care to Belizean children through its annual outreach clinic at Holy Cross Anglican School in San Pedro Town. The clinic was held on May 21st, 22nd, 25th, and 26th, from 8:30AM to 3PM each day. Organizers also announced that, following this year’s session, the clinic facility would undergo a full renovation and expansion to create a larger, more modern space capable of treating more patients in an improved environment.
Health
MoHW Warns Public Following Rise in Measles Cases in Belize
Belize health authorities confirmed 12 measles cases on May 22nd, all linked to travel to Guatemala or exposure to travelers from that country. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) reported that the outbreak affected patients aged 9 months to 54 years, with four distinct clusters identified, including two in Punta Gorda Town. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant, particularly unvaccinated persons living in or traveling to border communities.
Health
Parents’ consent required for HPV vaccinations in schools
Over the past several days, the topic of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has sparked debate between certain schools, particularly those under the Catholic Diocese, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), after concerns were raised about its administration in schools. Church officials have opposed administering vaccines on school compounds without parental involvement, instead supporting the position that parents should be the primary decision-makers regarding their children’s healthcare.
Health
Regional Health Officials Monitor Hantavirus Cases From Cruise Ship
Health authorities across the Caribbean, including Belize, are monitoring reports of a hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship traveling through the Central Atlantic. The MV Hondius, carrying 147 passengers and crew members from more than 20 countries, reportedly recorded eight cases between April 6th and 28th, including three confirmed hantavirus infections, five suspected cases, and three deaths. Reported symptoms included fever, pneumonia, and respiratory distress.