By Fabiana Mcklmon
The year 2024 has witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases across the Caribbean and globally, as reported by Dr. Anand Persaud, the National Focal Point Coordinator of COVID-19 for the Ministry of Health.
Since the start of the year, a noticeable rise in COVID-19 infections has been recorded.
In response, Dr. Persaud has urged citizens to remain vigilant and adopt essential healthcare measures such as frequent handwashing, sneezing etiquette, and most importantly, vaccination.
Dr. Persaud emphasized the importance of booster doses to enhance immunity against the virus.
He highlighted that individuals who have received their initial doses of vaccination can now opt for up to three booster shots every six months to bolster their immunity levels against circulating variants of the virus.
Moreover, Dr. Persaud reassured the public regarding testing capabilities, stating that advancements in medical technology now enable simultaneous testing for various viruses, including COVID-19, influenza strains, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), among others.
This comprehensive testing approach allows for accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
In instances where individuals present symptoms not indicative of COVID-19, Dr. Persaud affirmed that health centers are equipped to conduct tests for dengue and malaria, ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment for a range of illnesses.
The Ministry of Health’s objective remains focused on diagnosing patients accurately to effectively combat viruses at their source and provide timely and efficient healthcare interventions.