Ministry of Health monitors global respiratory virus trends
Wednesday, January 8, 2025
by Ministry of Health
HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV) AND OTHER RESPIRATORY DISEASES IN CHINA ARE AMONG THOSE UNDER SURVEILLANCE DURING FLU SEASON IN SAINT LUCIA.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has noted the media reports of the increased respiratory viruses circulating in China that have led to overwhelmed hospital systems and crematories. The respiratory cases reported are due to Influenza A, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Mycoplasma pneumonia and COVID-19. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has not submitted official reports to date.

The Caribbean region and Saint Lucia are presently in the typical flu season with notable increases in respiratory illnesses among the population. We are also experiencing peak travel and visitor influx. We note increases in Influenza A, cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID19 variants.

The Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that causes both upper and lower respiratory tract infections with an incubation period of 3 to 6 days. The duration depends on the severity of the disease. The symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath which may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia. This respiratory virus affects people of all ages but more intensely children under 5 years of age, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems.

In the interim, the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and focused on strengthening national capacity and response for the potential respiratory pandemic by increasing the disease surveillance system and local capacity to detect and manage cases. Testing for HMPV is presently available through the Caribbean Public Health Agency Medical Microbiology Laboratory (CMML).

The public is encouraged to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses by taking the following measures:

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, through diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress and toxic habits.
  • Ensure compliance by taking prescribed medication if you suffer from any chronic health conditions.
  • Strengthen sanitary measures at home and work and maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing.
  • Wear a face mask when presenting flu like symptoms
  • Consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen

All persons with chronic health conditions are strongly advised to wear a facemask when in public, in crowded conditions, and avoid contact with others who are sick. Personal responsibility is important at this time.

The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The Ministry of Health will continue to provide regular updates and health education to the public to take the necessary measures to reduce the impact of respiratory illness at this time.