The Barbados Ministry of Health and Wellness has firmly denied recent claims exaggerating the scale of a scabies outbreak at the Geriatric Hospital, emphasizing that patient and healthcare worker safety remain their top priorities.
The ministry confirmed two new cases, bringing the total number of confirmed scabies patients to 11. This follows last week’s announcement by Chief Medical Officer The Most Honourable Dr Kenneth George, who reported nine infected patients during a media briefing at the Pan American Health Organisation in St Michael.
However, Senator Andre Worrell, spokesperson on health for the Democratic Labour Party, held a press conference claiming there were up to 24 confirmed cases across five wards and that seven nurses had been affected.
Responding to these assertions, the ministry stated, “No official data supports claims of 24 patient cases or seven infected nurses. This is a dynamic situation. Infection control measures are active and we remain confident in a responsible resolution. Contact tracing continues and scabies – most often spread through prolonged contact – is likely introduced by external sources.”
Officials clarified that the situation does not qualify as a public health emergency of national significance. “There is no significant impact on the public or overwhelming strain on resources. There is no evidence of spread to schools, homes, or the general population. The situation remains controlled and claims of the outbreak being first communicated via media are inaccurate.”
The ministry also addressed concerns about staffing and working conditions, stating: “Our nurses are the backbone of health care and we value their commitment deeply. Recruitment is fair and transparent, ensuring all foreign and local professionals meet the same standards. Claims that Barbadian nurses are sidelined are unfounded.”
It further refuted allegations of unsafe working conditions and shortages of essential supplies. “Assertions of systemic shortages like soap or essential supplies are false. Hospitals are stocked according to usage needs and any isolated gaps are swiftly addressed. Claims of personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages are also unfounded. Supplies, including gloves and gowns, have been provided and infection control training continues regularly.”
Addressing environmental concerns, the ministry said: “Claims of dead birds in wards are unsupported. Allegations of rats in clinical areas remain unverified. Pest control measures are routinely enforced and no environmental health risk is present. Garbage disposal protocols are strictly followed. Any isolated issues are promptly resolved through facility management procedures.”
On patient management, the ministry noted that infected and non-infected patients are housed separately, with proper isolation protocols in place and staff briefed to uphold these measures.
The ministry urged the public to “disregard misinformation and rely solely on official sources” and reaffirmed its commitment to “providing the highest standards of care, safety, and accountability for all Barbadians.”
