Health Ministry reporting increase in respiratory infections
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is warning parents and caregivers after childcare centres across the Territory reported a noticeable rise in respiratory tract infections among infants and young children since the start of the current school term. Health officials urge vigilance, outline prevention steps and give guidance on when to seek medical care as they continue to monitor the situation.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is urging parents and caregivers to be vigilant after childcare providers across the Territory reported a marked increase in respiratory tract infections among young children since the school term began. Respiratory tract infections — which affect the nose, throat, airways or lungs and are most often viral — are common in young children whose immune systems are still developing.
National Epidemiologist Harmonie Brewley-Massiah told the Ministry that childcare centres have noticed a rise in children presenting with fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, diarrhoea, fatigue, irritability and decreased activity. According to reporting centres cited by the Ministry, attendance records show that between 60 and 90 percent of children at some facilities have been absent at least once because of illness since the start of term.
The high absentee rates have prompted public health officials to remind families and childcare staff about basic prevention and illness-management steps. Health officials explained that childcare and school settings can facilitate rapid spread of infections. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets produced by coughing, sneezing or talking and through contact with contaminated surfaces such as toys, tables and door handles.
Brewley-Massiah noted that group size, room layout, ventilation and the duration of exposure all influence how easily infections spread in these environments. The Ministry is urging parents and childcare providers to reinforce simple, effective measures: promote frequent handwashing with soap and water, teach and model proper cough and sneeze etiquette, regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces, and improve indoor ventilation where possible.
Parents are also reminded to keep children at home when they are unwell and to follow individual childcare centre illness policies. Brewley-Massiah cautioned that when children attend childcare while ill, infections can spread quickly to other children and staff, including those who may be more vulnerable to complications.
Keeping unwell children at home helps childcare centres maintain their illness policies and supports a safer environment for all children. Some children face higher risk of complications and require closer monitoring. These include babies born prematurely, children under two years with chronic lung or heart conditions, and children who are immunocompromised.
Caregivers should seek medical attention if a child develops a fever of 37.8°C or higher, a persistent or worsening cough, difficulty feeding, rapid or laboured breathing, wheezing, or unusual drowsiness. The Ministry said it continues to monitor the situation closely and is urging the public to remain vigilant in practicing preventive measures to protect children, families and the wider community.
For public health enquiries contact Natasha Lettsome-Humphrey, Public Health Communications Specialist, Ministry of Health and Social Development at 468-2286 or email nlettsome@gov.vg. For international media enquiries email BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com. General government services are available at 1 (284) 468-3701; the Government also offers a virtual booking system and a WhatsApp line at 1 (284) 468-9760.
BVI News has also reported on the Ministry's warning and echoed the public health guidance for parents and centres as officials work to limit further spread and protect vulnerable children.
Primary source: BVI Government