Flu on the rise throughout the region

Residents are being urged to stay alert as health officials report an uptick in flu-like illnesses across the territory.

National Epidemiologist Harmonie Brewley-Massiah said global and regional surveillance has confirmed increased circulation of Influenza A, a virus known to spread more quickly and hit more forcefully in unvaccinated populations.

While the Virgin Islands has not reached epidemic levels, clinics and other health facilities are seeing more patients with fever and respiratory symptoms, according to the Ministry of Health and Social Development.

“Right now, we are seeing more flu-like illness in our community, but the reported case numbers have not exceeded what is normally expected for this time of year,” Ms. Brewley-Massiah said.

She added that the situation presents an opportunity for the territory to act early, tighten prevention efforts and reduce the risk of wider spread.

Serious risk

The ministry warned that influenza can be serious and may lead to hospitalisation and complications, especially for older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic or weakened health conditions.

“Global data show that many of the most severe cases are occurring among people who were not vaccinated,” Ms. Brewley-Massiah said. “Vaccination remains our strongest line of defence, but it must be supported by other preventive measures, such as good hand hygiene, regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces, staying home when ill and reducing exposure risks.”

Influenza spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when infected people cough, sneeze or talk, and it can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, according to the ministry.

Symptoms typically show up within one to four days and can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue and headaches. Some cases may also include vomiting or diarrhea.

Children

Schools and early childhood centres were also asked to keep a close watch. Ms. Brewley-Massiah urged them to report unusually high absenteeism or clusters of illness to the Public Health Unit at 468-2285.

“Early reporting allows us to assess situations quickly and prevent further spread within schools and the wider community,” she said.