Health
Despite removal of COVID-19 regulations, vaccination campaign continues
Although most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted in Belize, the vaccination campaign continues. The COVID-19 virus is still around, and health authorities continue to vaccinate as many people as possible. Currently, less than 50% of the country’s population has been fully vaccinated.
Government
No more COVID-19 restrictions within Belize; some travel requirements remain
As of Friday, April 1st, all remaining COVID-19 restrictions within Belize will be lifted as per the Ministry of Health and Wellness. Restrictions mandating facemask wearing and social distancing will be lifted, and activities such as concerts and large gatherings will be allowed. Night clubs and bars will also be allowed to operate. The only restrictions that remain in place are the requirement for visitors/tourists ages five and above to present proof of immunization or a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, and Belizeans planning to travel out of the country must be vaccinated.
Community and Society
Prime Minister Briceño announces hospital for San Pedro Town
As previously indicated by Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez regarding the securement of funds for building a hospital in San Pedro Town, on Tuesday, March 15th, it was confirmed that islanders would finally get the long-awaited medical facility. Briceño announced during his budget presentation saying that the financing for the island hospital is a $33 million grant from the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Health
UNDP and the Global Fund supports the Ministry of Health & Wellness through the Delivery Covid ICU Medication, HIV/Syphilis Kits and Taq-Path PCR Tests
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the National AIDS Commission, under the framework of the Global Fund project titled “Building Resilience Through Innovation and National Accountability for the HIV and TB Response in Belize.” Conducted a handing over activity in Belmopan on March 2nd. The donation included 2,000 individual HIV/Syphilis tests valued at USD4,800, Covid Intensive Care Unit medication valued at USD10,681.9, along with 5 Taqpath Covid 19 CE-IVD RT-PCR Kits valued at USD35,355.
Health
The World Bank Helps to Strengthen Belize’s COVID-19 Response
The World Bank has approved financing of US$6.2 million for the Belize COVID-19 Response Project, which will support the country in the acquisition and deployment of COVID-19 vaccines.
Accidents & Disasters
Island Emergency Services render medical services to tourist at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
With the help of the Belize Coast Guard and Island Emergency Services (IES), a tourist experiencing a seizure during a snorkeling trip at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve was quickly evaluated and transported back to San Pedro Town for further medical treatment. The incident occurred on Thursday, February 24th, near midday.
Education
The MoECST Receives Donation of Medical Face Masks
On February 17, 2022, Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST), received a generous donation of 5,000 medical face masks from H.E. David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize.
Health
MOHW Issues Caution to Unauthorized COVID-19 Testing Sites
It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Health & Wellness (MOHW) that persons or entities not authorized by the ministry are providing COVID-19 test services to the public. The public is reminded that Statutory Instrument No. 15 of 2022 states that every person who desires to offer testing for SARS-CoV-2 shall apply in writing to the ministry responsible for health for approval to offer testing. Every person who contravenes this regulation commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of BZ$5,000.