With children back in school, parents, guardians and teachers are being urged to reinforce basic public-health practices to reduce the risk of illness among students and staff, particularly during the gastroenteritis and flu seasons. In an interview with JIS News, Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, emphasised that proper hand hygiene remains one of the most effective...

The Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is expanding psychosocial support services across Westmoreland, to assist residents affected by the passage of Hurricane Melissa. Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, said the initiative forms part of a wider response being implemented in parishes impacted by the hurricane, with a focus on providing emotional and mental health support to...

Parents and guardians are being encouraged to reinforce peaceful conflict‑resolution practices and promote healthy behaviours among students as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and productive school term. Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, Gerald Miller, told JIS News that while conflicts are inevitable in school settings, they must never be resolved through violence, as this can...

New Chairman of the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA), Michael Stern, says he will be focused on upgrading and expanding healthcare infrastructure to meet the increased demand on health services in the region. SRHA is responsible for the management and operation of public health services in Manchester, Clarendon and St. Elizabeth, including a network of health centres and hospitals, within...

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has launched a Family Caregivers Pilot Programme at Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC), geared at allowing designated family members or close friends to stay with and support patients in public hospitals. Under the initiative, the role of family members is to provide non-clinical care such as comfort, feeding, and emotional support, while the licensed...

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. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, noted that Jamaica is facing the dual challenge of routine seasonal pressures and extraordinary disruption simultaneously. Speaking...

The Percy Junor Hospital in Manchester has received a donation of items, which will enhance patient care, operational efficiency and overall staff/visitor experience. The items, which include a Starlink satellite unit, a generator, two water cooler dispensers and care packages, will also benefit the adjoining Spalding Health Centre. Minister without portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility...