National Epidemiologist Warns of Prolonged Dengue Outbreak in Jamaica

National Epidemiologist Warns Of Prolonged Dengue Outbreak In Jamaica

In a concerning update, National Epidemiologist Dr. Karen Webster-Kerr has revealed that Jamaica is expected to experience a persistent surge in dengue virus cases for the next few months. Dr. Webster-Kerr predicts that the country will record over 1,000 confirmed, suspected, and presumed cases of dengue each month until the first quarter of the following year. Furthermore, she warns that this number could potentially rise to at least 1,400 cases per month.

During an interview on Radio Jamaica’s Hotline, Dr. Webster-Kerr emphasised that the high number of cases is likely to continue until around March, after which the incidence should gradually decrease to a range of 500 to 600 cases per month. The situation is particularly alarming as the data for September alone shows 1,409 confirmed, suspected, and presumed dengue cases, with an additional 240 cases reported so far this month.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness has reported 434 confirmed cases of the disease as of Wednesday, based on approximately 2,107 suspected and presumed samples. Unfortunately, this outbreak has also resulted in seven dengue-related deaths, with five classified as suspected and two confirmed cases.

The authorities are working diligently to address the situation and implement necessary measures to control the spread of the virus. Dr. Webster-Kerr urges the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites and practising personal protection against mosquito bites.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness continues to monitor the situation closely and provide guidance to healthcare facilities and communities across the country. Efforts are being made to raise awareness about dengue prevention and ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for affected individuals.

As the dengue outbreak persists, it is crucial for the public to stay informed, cooperate with health authorities, and prioritise proactive measures to minimise the impact of the virus on individuals and communities in Jamaica.

 

Source: Radio Jamaica News

Africa Young Innovators for Health Award Recognises Pioneering Entrepreneurs Driving Universal Health Coverage

In a celebration of scientific excellence and innovation in Africa, the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) and Speak Up Africa have announced the winners of the second edition of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award. The prestigious award recognises young entrepreneurs who are making significant strides in advancing healthcare solutions and driving universal health coverage in their communities.

The first prize winners of the award are Teniola Adedeji from Nigeria and Dr. Moses Ochora from Uganda. Adedeji, the CEO of Pharmarun, an on-demand platform that provides convenient access to essential medications, expressed her commitment to ensuring universal health coverage through collaborations among pharmacies. Dr. Moses Ochora, the Co-Founder and CEO of Photo-Kabada, a remotely monitored phototherapy device designed to reduce neonatal jaundice-related morbidity and mortality, emphasised the importance of homegrown solutions in achieving universal health coverage.

The second prize winners of the award are Nura Izath from Uganda and Muhammad Abdullahi from Nigeria, who were also recognized for their innovative contributions to healthcare in Africa.

The second edition of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award focused on innovations that aim to achieve universal health coverage across the continent. While many African governments have expressed their commitment to achieving universal health coverage by 2030, there is a need to accelerate progress. The award sought to support entrepreneurs whose innovations can extend population and service coverage while ensuring financial protection for patients.

Yacine Djibo, the Executive Director and Founder of Speak Up Africa, highlighted the importance of fresh and purposeful health innovations in advancing equity and delivering essential health services. The award aimed to promote gender equality and support entrepreneurs who contribute to the goal of universal healthcare coverage.

Thomas Cueni, the Director General of IFPMA, congratulated the winners and expressed the organisation’s commitment to accelerating innovation in delivering universal healthcare coverage. Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall, Director of Neglected Tropical Disease at the World Health Organisation and a jury member of the second edition, commended the program for its tangible and intangible support to African entrepreneurs, contributing to the achievement of common goals.

The Africa Young Innovators for Health Award is a program launched in 2021 by Speak Up Africa and IFPMA. It provides young health entrepreneurs in Africa with funding, business mentorship, intellectual property rights guidance, media training, and access to a network of supporters and partners.

Supported by organisations such as Amref Health Africa, Forum Galien Afrique, and Women in Global Health, the award program recognises the crucial role of innovation in realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and fulfilling the fundamental human right to health.

The winners of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award are poised to make significant contributions to advancing universal health coverage and transforming healthcare in Africa. Their innovations hold the potential to improve health outcomes and create lasting positive change in their communities and beyond.

 

Source: Independent Uganda