US Donates Over US$14,000 in Medical Supplies

Jamaica has received a donation of medical equipment and supplies valued at more than US$14,000 from the United States (US) government.

The items, which arrived on the USNS Burlington, were handed over on Wednesday (July 10) at Kingston Wharves.

They include 12 Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, 25 nebulisers, two hospital beds, 500 syringes, 20 urine containers, 20 shoe covers, six packs of surgical training supplies, and one pallet of hygiene supplies.

Director of Emergency, Disaster Management and Special Services, Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr. Nicole Dawkins-Wright said that the support, which comes after the passage of Hurricane Beryl, underscores the importance of partnerships in public health.

She expressed gratitude for the items, particularly the CPAP machines, which help to support patients with their breathing.

US Ambassador to Jamaica, Nick Perry, who handed over the items, said that Jamaica has also received U$$2.5 million in humanitarian assistance in the wake of the hurricane.

“That’s… assistance that will help Jamaicans to repair homes, assist with water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations and provide essential relief to those in need,” he noted.

The USNS Burlington is in Jamaica as part of the Continuing Promise 2024 mission by the US Naval Forces Southern Command.

It is the 14th iteration of the mission to the region, which is aimed at fostering goodwill, establishing new partnerships and strengthening existing ties.

In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, the USNS Burlington added emergency supplies to assist in the island’s recovery.

While in Jamaica, US Navy and Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) personnel will collaborate on knowledge sharing, joint training and participation in medical care engagements and construction projects across Kingston.

Additionally, they will conduct a multi-day humanitarian assistance and disaster response exercise.

Mission Commander, Lieutenant Commander Zachary Smith, said it is the third time in the last 10 years that the mission has visited Jamaica, making the island one of the leading stops for Continuing Promise.

“Throughout our time here, we look forward to working hand in hand with the Jamaica Defence Force to conduct multiple days of side-by-side medical care to military and civilian patients at three separate medical sites,” he said.