Awaiting Test Results: Concern Grows Over Surge In Respiratory Illness

There are growing concerns regarding a surge in respiratory illnesses across the island, as medical staff at one hospital have reported flu-like symptoms, leading to redirection of some patients to another hospital.

Health professionals are working to determine the virus responsible for the spike in respiratory illnesses, and samples are being sent to the National Public Health lab for analysis.

The surge has led to patients at the Bustamante Hospital for Children being re-directed to the University Hospital of the West Indies.

While evidence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was seen a few months ago, it is not yet clear whether this virus is responsible for the current surge.

RSV is known to cause lung and respiratory tract infections, commonly seen in children from the age of two and also affecting adults.

According to Dr. Orville Nembhard, a Public Health Specialist, some young children have also been severely affected by the current wave of respiratory illness, with a few requiring hospitalisation.

While primary school-age children seem to fare better with symptomatic treatment at home, they are typically quite ill for the first few days.

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