Minister of Health, Daniel Cummings, confirmed that a new and specific strain of influenza which recently entered St. Vincent and the Grenadines is now considered to be under “fairly good control”.
The Minister noted that the increase in influenza cases is not unique to the local population; the entire Caribbean region is currently experiencing a similar phenomenon, with the rapid increase in cases even affecting festivities like the carnival in Trinidad and Tobago.
To manage the surge in patients, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and her team recommended the temporary hiring of additional physicians. The recommendation was formally accepted and approved by the Cabinet.
While the Ministry remains vigilant, the Minister emphasised that the measures taken have been effective in bringing the situation under control.