Health
COVID-19 Vaccine Now Available for Eligible Minors
The Ministry of Health & Wellness informs that children aged 12 to 17 years are now eligible to receive a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine three months after receiving their second dose.
Health
New Health and Travel Insurance for visitors is still a go; some stakeholders do not support it
Despite the opposition of numerous tourism stakeholders to the government's plan to require health and travel insurance on visitors, this new requirement is expected to come into effect on February 15th. The new requirement even applies to those with their own health and travel insurance. This new insurance will be available for purchase via an online portal still in the works or at any country's entry point. The cost is US$18 for coverage up to US$50,000 in medical expenses related to COVID-19 and up to US$2,000 for lodging at the mandatory quarantine. The policy also makes provisions for trip cancellations, which may be necessary if someone falls ill with the virus.
Health
Ministry of Health & Wellness Observes World Cancer Day 2022
Belize joins the international community to observe World Cancer Day on February 4, 2022, under the theme, ‘Close the care gap.’ According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. While the burden of cancer is felt worldwide, about 70% of deaths are registered in low- and middle-income countries.
Community and Society
Fundraiser planned for Belizean performer Marlyn Vansen suffering from Multiple Sclerosis
A barbeque (BBQ) fundraiser and telethon to raise much-needed funds to assist Belizean singer Marlyn Vansen suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) will be at the Battlefield Park on Saturday, January 29th, Belize City. MS is a disease in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged by the immune system. It has no cure, and symptoms can range from fatigue, seizures, pain, paralysis, etc. The treatment is costly, and anyone able and willing can help via purchasing BBQ or depositing in the following bank accounts: Atlantic Bank-David/Marcella Vansen #211-44-9832, David Vansen Belize Bank #91595-914-3204, Marlyn Vansen Heritage Bank #1213-301, and Cash App at $NIRVAGOR.
Community and Society
Government presents new system to dispose of medical waste
A set of rules guiding to how properly get rid of medical waste now makes it illegal and fineable to dispose of it improperly. The Medical Waste Regulations ensure that medical waste is managed via improved storage, transportation, and disposal throughout the country.
Health
Belize Supports Taiwan’s Participation at the 75th World Health Assembly
The Government of Belize and the Ministry of Health & Wellness support the Republic of China (Taiwan)’s participation at the 75th World Health Assembly (WHA) as an observer. The 150th Executive Board is met on, January 24th, in a forum where all the member states of the Region of the Americas will review and discuss agenda items of particular interest to the region. The meeting will address current issues related to public health and will also provide member states of the region with an overview of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Education
The MoECST Receives Donation of Sanitization and Cleaning Supplies
On January 20, 2022, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) received a donation of school sanitisation and cleaning supplies from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a handing over ceremony at the Government House in Belize City. The donation is valued at BZ$180,691.63 and consists of children's masks, disinfectant, hand sanitisers and liquid hand soap, among other items.
Health
New Polyclinic for Placencia Village
On January 21, 2022, the Ministry of Health & Wellness in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations; Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Area Representative for Stann Creek West; and the Placencia Village Council, held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new polyclinic in Placencia.