Government of Saint Lucia

In the headlines: Celebrity Beyond, recently made its inaugural call to Port Castries and; The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports implement processes to aid in the training of youth workers.

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

The Government of Saint Lucia and the National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC) have much to be proud following Saint Lucia’s success application for re-rating of the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) recommendations for the prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing. The country was subject to the enhanced follow-up process due to some significant inadequacies in relation to the FATF 40 Recommendations.

In the headlines: The Micoud North Constituency has commenced a series of enhancements to their communal playing field and; Export Saint Lucia gears up to host the second edition of the National Business Expo.

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

The Second staging of the Central Library’s Literary Festival also known as Litfest has been dubbed a huge success. The activity came off at the Central Library last week Friday

In the headlines: The National Housing Refurbishment program and Sports development benefit from a Republic of China Taiwan grant donation and; Stakeholders and Residents of Piaye gather for a handover and plaque unveiling ceremony for the Piaye Bridge.

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

Health seems to be a topic which always brings nations together.

Furthermore, the Cancer as a disease continues to lead the global discussions as the number one killer among nations.

This February 4th, the world unites again under one voice, observing World Cancer Day under the Theme “Closing the Care Gap”.

St. Lucia will also join the observance, under the subtheme “Saint Lucia Moves to Conquer Cancer”.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs continues to note an increase in the number of persons presenting with flu-like illnesses at the Emergency Departments, Wellness Centers and private doctors’ offices. This is due to new COVID-19 variants, Influenza A and B and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Over the last 14 days, an increase in hospitalizations and deaths due to COVID-19 were also noted. During the period January 15-25, 2024 three COVID-19 deaths were recorded. The elderly, persons with chronic health conditions and the unvaccinated are most affected at this time.

The Ministry of Health has begun preparation in the event that cases continue to increase. The hospitals are on alert to ensure supplies, equipment and medication is available. PCR and rapid testing are available free of charge to the public at the various Wellness Centers and Community Hospitals and Polyclinic. The regional public health agencies are working to source and supply the region with the necessary vaccines.

The public is encouraged to reduce the impact of respiratory illnesses by the following measures:

·       Maintain a healthy lifestyle, through diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduced stress and toxic habits

·       Ensure compliance by taking prescribed medication if you suffer from any chronic health conditions

·       Strengthen sanitary measures at home and work and maintain proper hand hygiene with regular hand washing

·       Wear a face mask when presenting flu like symptoms

·       Consult a healthcare professional if flu like symptoms linger or worsen

All persons with chronic health conditions are strongly advised to wear a facemask when in public, in crowded conditions, and avoid contact with others who are sick. Personal responsibility is important at this time.

Facemasks are available at all the public health facilities to patients who may need. General updated guidelines have been prepared for all of the main agencies.

The Ministry of Health reminds the general public that we are presently in the flu season which runs from October to March and as such, would like to encourage the use of the flu vaccine which is available free of charge at the various wellness centers. The COVID-19 Janssen vaccine is also available and can be taken as a booster especially for persons with risks factors or chronic illness.

The Ministry of Health will continue to provide regular updates and health education to the general public to take the necessary measures to reduce the impact of respiratory illness at this time.

In the headlines: The Inland Revenue Department sheds light on the Tax Administration Procedures Act and; A recently held School-Supervision retreat of the Ministry of Education is being viewed as significant to improving school management within the education sector.

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