ST ANN, Jamaica—The Government is taking steps to strengthen health services and address rising demand, as it responds to the combined impact of Hurricane Melissa and the annual influenza season on the public health system.

Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, noted that Jamaica is facing the dual challenge of routine seasonal pressures and extraordinary disruption simultaneously.

Speaking during the official handover of the rehabilitated Runaway Bay Community Health Centre in St Ann on January 16, Dr Tufton explained that while seasonal illness is anticipated each year, the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa has created conditions well beyond the norm.

“What is the exceptional challenge we face now? [The] impact of Hurricane Melissa, where at least six parishes had major impact to health infrastructure. Over 105 of the 325 health centres that we have, have been impacted by the hurricane,” he noted.

The minister added that even parishes spared the worst of the damage continue to feel the effects.

“This parish of St Ann, though among the least impacted, has nevertheless been affected,” Dr Tufton pointed out.

Alongside hurricane recovery efforts, the minister noted that the health system is simultaneously managing its usual seasonal flu surge.

“We’re going through the flu season where we normally have a spike in the attendance at our health facilities of persons who want help because of flu-like symptoms, respiratory-related illnesses. That amplifies some of the other chronic illnesses, such as] diabetes. So you get a spike in the demand on services at our accident and emergency wards, if not at our health centres,” Dr Tufton explained.

He highlighted concerns raised by several health workers and underscored that the Government is mindful of the challenges they face.

-JIS