As children returned to school, Dr. Lynda Williams, the president of the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners (BAMP), has raised concerns over a potential spike in respiratory illnesses.
With the recent increase in flu and dengue cases, Dr. Williams urged parents to keep their children at home if they are unwell. She further advised individuals to take all necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and others from contracting any viruses.
While the flu and cold season were dominated by COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the start of the new school term could pose a health challenge.
Dr. Williams recommended covering one’s cough, wearing a mask, and seeking medical advice if experiencing shortness of breath, high fever, chest pain, or coughing up a lot of mucous.
Additionally, Dr. Williams warned that individuals with dengue fever are more susceptible to other viruses.
She advised the wearing of insect repellent, using mosquito netting screens, and eliminating sources of standing water to protect against mosquitoes.
