Government of Saint Lucia

In the headlines:

New Zealand partners with the OECS, to bridge critical geothermal energy skills gap and; the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association embarks on the first partnership activity with the Ministry for Persons with Disabilities.

For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines:

Caribbean experts call for mentorship and inclusive training to address the challenges boys face in achieving academic success, and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force activates a mobile police station to enhance security measures.

For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines:

Caribbean experts call for mentorship and inclusive training to address the challenges boys face in achieving academic success, and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force activates a mobile police station to enhance security measures.

For details on these updates and more, visit www.govt.lc

Saint Lucians urged to prioritize water conservation and storage, as authorities scale up preparations ahead of the 2025 dry season.

In the headlines: The Ministry of Health, monitors increased respiratory illnesses amidst the flu season and; A DDM project is set to bolster development initiatives in Saint Lucia.

For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

In the headlines: The DCA has introduced, land development regulations, incorporating the Saint Lucia building code and EIA regulations and; Saint Lucia has launched, the Nobel Laureate Festival 2025.

For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has noted the media reports of the increased respiratory viruses circulating in China that have led to overwhelmed hospital systems and crematories. The respiratory cases reported are due to Influenza A, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Mycoplasma pneumonia and COVID-19. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has not submitted official reports to date.

The Caribbean region and Saint Lucia are presently in the typical flu season with notable increases in respiratory illnesses among the population. We are also experiencing peak travel and visitor influx. We note increases in Influenza A, cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID19 variants.

The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and focused on strengthening national capacity and response for the potential respiratory pandemic by increasing the disease surveillance system and local capacity to detect and manage cases. Testing for HMPV is presently available through the Caribbean Public Health Agency Medical Microbiology Laboratory (CMML).

Read more: https://www.govt.lc/news/ministry-of-health-monitors-global-respiratory-virus-trends

In the headlines: CARPHA's Pandemic Fund supports reduction in dengue and other mosquito borne illnesses in Member states through fogging machines and chemicals and; Saint Lucia advances inclusive development with IT support for vulnerable populations

For details on these developments and more, visit www.govt.lc

The Owen King EU Hospital (OKEU), a key facility within the Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC), has issued a public advisory to address the current challenges faced by its Accident and Emergency Department (AED).

Due to a significant increase in patient numbers, the AED is experiencing overcrowding, resulting in longer waiting times for individuals seeking emergency medical care. This situation underscores the urgent need for public cooperation to ensure that the hospital can continue to provide timely and effective emergency services for critical cases.

Members of the public are encouraged to seek alternative care for minor health-related conditions at the following healthcare facilities:

• Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic
• 
  
•  Contact: 468-8880
• Gros Islet Polyclinic
• 
  
•  Contact: 468-7637 | 468-7630 | 723-0663
• Dennery Hospital
• 
  
•  Contact: 468-7650 | 468-7651 | 468-7657
• Soufriere Hospital
• 
  
•  Contact: 468-7601 | 468-7603 | 485-8681

These facilities are equipped to manage urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, helping to alleviate the strain on the AED and improve service delivery for all patients. The OKEU and MHMC remain committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services and thank the public for their understanding and cooperation during this challenging time. Thank you for your continued support in sharing critical health updates with the public.

As the holiday season approaches, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs is ensuring that essential healthcare services remain accessible while urging the public to prioritize safety and preparedness during this festive period. In a recent announcement, the Ministry outlined the operating hours for Community Wellness Centres, Polyclinics, and District Hospitals, emphasizing the need for continuity of care and personal responsibility to safeguard health and well-being. With certain facilities remaining open during the holidays and others temporarily closed, the Ministry encourages individuals to plan ahead, refill prescriptions, and take necessary precautions to prevent health emergencies during the celebrations.