Barbados has witnessed a significant increase in gastrointestinal illnesses, with health officials identifying rotavirus as a new contributing factor among laboratory samples.
This development follows a marked increase in cases among both adults and children since late April.
Escalating infection rates
The uptick began in late April and continued into June, with older individuals particularly affected.
By the end of April, there were 34 cases in individuals over five years of age, which surged to 76 by mid-May.
Although the weekly case numbers have since decreased to 46 by mid-June, they remain well above the typical alert threshold for this time of year, which is fewer than eight cases.
Children under five at greater risk
The situation is more alarming in children under five, where cases escalated from eight in the last week of April to a peak of 27 by mid-May.
This age group remains particularly vulnerable due to their frequent and close contact in settings such as daycares and playgrounds.
Health Ministry’s findings and recommendations
Recent tests on diarrheal samples have confirmed the presence of rotavirus, alongside previously identified bacterial pathogens.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness has highlighted the highly contagious nature of rotavirus, which spreads through contact with contaminated objects or individuals.
Public health advisory
The public has been urged to adopt stringent hand hygiene practices in response to the outbreak. This includes regular handwashing, particularly before meals, and careful food handling, especially when purchasing ready-to-eat items.
Health officials recommend washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
Additionally, the public is advised to observe safe food handling practices to prevent further spread of the virus.
These measures include keeping hot foods above 140 degrees Fahrenheit and cold foods below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring food is shielded from insects, and using proper utensils to avoid direct contact with food.
