Wrap It Up Festival Safety Campaign
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched the 'Wrap It Up Before You Wuk It Up' campaign running July 13 to August 7, 2026, to promote safer sexual practices, responsible alcohol use, and personal responsibility during the Emancipation Festival season. Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronald E. Georges said the campaign combines culturally relevant messaging with practical advice to reduce STIs, alcohol-related injuries and impaired driving.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched a public education campaign, "Wrap It Up Before You Wuk It Up," running from July 13 to August 7, 2026, aimed at promoting safer behaviours during the Emancipation Festival season. According to a Government Information Service (GIS) press release, Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronald E.
Georges said festivals are a time to celebrate culture and freedom but also a period when increased social activity can lead to higher rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), alcohol-related injuries, impaired driving and other preventable health risks. "Through this campaign, the Ministry aims to encourage residents to enjoy the festivities while making decisions that protect their health and wellbeing," Dr Georges said, adding that one bad decision can have lifelong consequences.
The campaign pairs health education with culturally relevant messaging to reach residents and visitors across the islands. Key messages promoted during the campaign include consistent and correct condom use to reduce the risk of HIV and many STIs; knowing and communicating your sexual health status with partners; regular testing when appropriate; and a reminder that sexual activity involving persons under 16 is unlawful.
Dr Georges urged adults to verify ages and respect personal boundaries at all times. The Ministry will deliver these messages through radio announcements, newsletters, social media, community outreach and other public education channels. Festival-goers are being encouraged to designate a sober driver, avoid driving while impaired, pace alcoholic drinks throughout the day, alternate alcoholic beverages with water, and never mix alcohol with prescribed antibiotics or other medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Free condoms are available from the Public Health Unit on the third floor of the Union Property Building. Residents who have questions about sexual health services, testing locations, or safe-use guidance for medications are encouraged to contact the Ministry or local public health clinics for information.
The Ministry closed by wishing everyone a safe, enjoyable and memorable 72nd Emancipation Festival and reminding both residents and visitors that celebrating responsibly protects individuals, families and the wider community. The campaign emphasises that simple precautions and personal responsibility help ensure the festival remains a time of positive cultural celebration rather than preventable harm.
Primary source: VINO