Tag:
Ministry of Health and Wellness
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.
Health
First-ever international HIV symposium held in Belize
For the first time in Belize and the region, the International AIDS Society Educational Fund symposium was held in the country on April 29th, highlighting the need for a more coordinated response to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The event brought together health leaders from across the country to address gaps in the national response to a disease that is now better managed with modern medicine.
Community and Society
Belize Moves to Strengthen Health Safety Measures Across Tourism Sector
From April 13th to 15th, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), in collaboration with Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), conducted a series of activities to strengthen early warning surveillance systems and promote safer tourism practices. A five-member CARPHA team, led by Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar, delivered advanced training in food safety, visitor-based and mass-gathering surveillance, and multisectoral partnerships in Belize City.
Government
Government introduces incentives to retain public health nurses
The Government of Belize has introduced a retention package for public health nurses, including those at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, to curb the outflow of skilled workers. Approved by Cabinet and set to be implemented in phases, starting in the 2025/2026 budget cycle, the initiative provides financial incentives and benefits for nurses across the country.
Health
MOHW Addresses Concerns Over Prescription Requirement for Contraceptives
The controversy over prescriptions required to obtain contraceptives has sparked opposition across the country. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) stated that such regulations have long been in place but have not been consistently enforced, and that the government is now working to regularize nationwide medication distribution. This means that, in addition to contraceptives, other medications previously available over the counter will soon require a doctor’s prescription.
Community and Society
San Pedro Youth Participate in Empowerment Session
A Youth Empowerment Session was held on Thursday, April 9th, from 9AM to 12PM at San Pedro High School. The event brought together young people for interactive discussions on development topics as part of the “Leave No One Behind: Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy” project. The initiative is supported by Irish Aid, Luxembourg Aid & Development, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Belize Family Life Association (BFLA), the Department of Youth Services (DYS), the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Key representatives included Jewel Crawford and Kris Miller from UNFPA, Bryan Paul from BFLA, and Kyle Miller from DYS.
Health
Health Officials Warn of Measles Risk and Rising Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Belize’s Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) is urging the public to remain vigilant as the country monitors two growing health concerns: a rapidly expanding measles outbreak across the Americas and an increase in mosquito-borne diseases in the region. Health officials are reminding residents that prevention, early action, and community cooperation remain critical to protecting public health.
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.