The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has shifted gears into the use of aerospace defence systems to protect the country, President Irfaan Ali announced at the commissioning ceremony for a new Italian-made utility plane. “We have expanded our air assets and capability to include our aerospace investment,” he told the event to officially welcome the Tecnam ...

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic continues to be free of measles, with no cases of local transmission reported since 2001, according to the Ministry of Public Health. However, in response to rising measles cases across the Americas, as reported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the country has intensified its epidemiological surveillance.

For over two decades, all suspected measles cases have been promptly ruled out through clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory testing—efforts led by the General Directorate of Epidemiology in coordination with technical health bodies. Between 2020 and 2025, over 1.6 million MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine doses have been administered to children under two, with a two-dose schedule at 12 and 18 months. The vaccine provides 93% protection after the first dose and up to 97% after the second.

Vaccination coverage has remained high, with first-dose rates above 90% and notable increases in second-dose uptake. During Vaccination Week of the Americas in 2022, the country reached a record 97% coverage among children ages 1 to 5.

So far in 2025, health authorities have reviewed over 1.6 million clinical records and conducted visits to 371 communities with no confirmed measles cases. To maintain this status, the Ministry has implemented a national prevention plan that includes rapid vaccination monitoring, immunization of at-risk individuals, outreach campaigns, and health worker training.

Data from the latest Global AIDS Update Report, released by UNAIDS, shows the Caribbean recorded a 62% reduction in AIDS-related deaths, between 2010 and 2024, the steepest decline among eight regions globally. According to the report—AIDS, Crisis and the Power to Transform—over the last fifteen years, there has been a 54% decline in AIDS-related deaths ...

A primary school in Christ Church was abruptly closed on Tuesday after a seven-year-old pupil was admitted to intensive care with a suspected infectious illness, leaving parents and teachers demanding answers.

The Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) has confirmed that a pupil of Gordon Walters Primary School, in St Patrick’s, was being treated in the Intensive Care Unit, and at least six of his 11 classmates have also fallen ill, with high fever the most common symptom reported. 

Teachers are now calling on health authorities to provide answers, as investigations continue into the child’s condition and the cause of the cluster of student absences.

In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, the Ministry of Education said the decision to close the school was made “out of caution for the health and safety of its staff and students” after being notified by the Principal of the hospital admission.

Speaking to Barbados TODAY at the school, BUT Vice-President Julian Pierre, who chairs the union’s health and safety committee, said the incident had left staff deeply concerned.

“There are a number of students in a particular class – I think the class has 12 students – where about seven of the students are out sick. The general symptom of that class, as reported, was high fever,” he disclosed.

“There are also students from other classes who are absent, reasons being unknown. Similar to the case at St Bernard’s Primary School, the staff is concerned as to what it possibly could be.”

Pierre noted that no official diagnosis had yet been made regarding the child in hospital.

“There has been a report or confirmation from the Chief Medical Officer that there are no cases of scarlet fever,” he said.

News of the hospitalisation began circulating on Monday night, and teachers met with the Principal the following morning. Many expressed discomfort about continuing classes given the uncertainty and the child’s condition.

“Teachers said they were uncomfortable. The level of anxiety was high, especially after what happened at St Bernard’s and the fact that this child had to be hospitalised,” Pierre said. “They’re worried it could be a highly contagious disease.”

The education ministry said in its statement: “The Principal of Gordon Walters Primary conducted a staff briefing this morning to update staff on the student’s welfare. Some teachers communicated feelings of discomfort to the Principal, and choosing to err on the side of caution, [the ministry] closed the school at 11:35 a.m.”

The Ministry of Health was actively investigating the symptoms and circumstances surrounding the child’s admission, the ministry said. 

“As per protocols and best practices, the immediate contacts have been identified and are being appropriately managed,” the statement added.

Despite those assurances, Pierre said the mood among teachers remained tense.

The situation comes just a week after St Bernard’s Primary in St Joseph was forced to close for two days. Several students fell ill at that school, prompting industrial cleaning and a full inspection by health officials. While scarlet fever was ruled out in that instance, two isolated cases of hand, foot and mouth disease were suspected. However, some staff remain unconvinced.

Now, teachers at Gordon Walters are demanding greater transparency from health authorities. Pierre insisted that parents, staff, and the public deserve clear communication.

“There has to be some level of transparency in that if the health officials say it is not a particular thing, there has to be some confirmation to the public as to what it is. This is about the safety of children and those who teach them,” Pierre said. “We need clear, timely information and swift action to prevent panic and protect everyone involved.”

As investigations continue, the BUT is urging parents to be extra cautious.

“We’re asking parents during this time to be vigilant as to the status of their children,” Pierre advised. “Check their skin and so on, make sure that they’re feeling fine. You know that within the school environment, there are many different viruses and bacteria that will pass throughout the school year.

“If you see anything that is irregular, seek medical attention… hopefully it is something that can be treated as soon as possible so there is no further spread of whatever it is that the child may be experiencing.”

The Ministry of Educational Transformation has confirmed that Gordon Walters Primary will remain closed until further notice, pending the outcome of medical investigations and a joint decision with the Ministry of Health.

The current school term ends on Thursday for students.

sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb

The post Classes suspended at Gordon Walters Primary after child hospitalised, others fall ill appeared first on Barbados Today.

View the full post Bermuda mulling digital healthcare collaboration with Grenada on NOW Grenada.

Research developments in Alzheimer’s disease, including newly approved blood tests for early detection, have helped patients get diagnosed sooner.

With dementia on the rise among younger individuals, the spotlight is on ways to prevent or slow the disease.

Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California, spoke with Fox News Digital in an interview about Alzheimer’s risk and management. (See the video at the top of this article.) 

FIRST BLOOD TEST FOR ALZHEIMER'S DIAGNOSIS CLEARED BY FDA

"Alzheimer's starts in your brain decades before you have any symptoms," he said. "So, a 59-year-old woman I diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease likely had negative changes in her brain in her 20s."

He added, "It's really never too early to think about protecting your brain and your mind."

Amen, author of the book "Change Your Brain Every Day," confirmed that half of Alzheimer’s cases are preventable, according to recent findings.

This can be done through nurturing brain health and treating the 11 major risk factors that "steal your mind," he said.

To remember the factors that can help ward off Alzheimer's, Amen created the acronym "BRIGHTMINDS" as follows.

Low blood flow is the No. 1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer’s disease, according to the doctor.

Alcohol, marijuana, caffeine, nicotine, sedentary behavior and excess weight or obesity can all decrease blood flow, thus should be avoided.

To promote blood flow, Amen suggests "walking like you’re late," which could entail walking 30 minutes a day — alternating between three minutes of normal walking and three minutes of fast walking.

"Do that five times for 30 minutes, and it increases blood flow to your brain," he said. 

Along with retirement and aging can come a slowdown in learning and cognitive activity, leading to a higher Alzheimer’s risk, Amen said.

'I'M A NEUROLOGIST — HERE'S WHY DEMENTIA IS RISING AND HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISK’

He encourages retirees to learn something new every day to keep the brain active and healthy.

Inflammation is a "major cause" of psychiatric issues, Amen revealed, as well as conditions like cancer, arthritis and heart disease.

Flossing is an easy way to reduce inflammation in the gums and help prevent gum disease, which is a gateway to brain disease, according to the doctor.

"Genes aren't a death sentence," Amen said. "What they should be is a wake-up call."

The doctor said everyone should take steps to discover which diseases run in the family and then follow a daily prevention program.

STROKE, DEMENTIA AND DEPRESSION SHARE THESE 17 PREVENTABLE RISK FACTORS

"I have heart disease and obesity in my family," he said. "I don't have heart disease, and I'm not overweight. Why? Because I'm on an obesity heart disease prevention program every day of my life."

Concussions and head trauma are a "major cause" of psychiatric problems, Amen described, and should be avoided.

"Don't text and drive," he warned.

Some well-known toxins like alcohol, marijuana and other drugs are known to have negative impacts on overall health.

But some not-so-obvious toxins can include lead, mold, mercury from fish, and even general anesthesia, Amen cautioned.

"You always want to support your organs in detoxification," he said. "Drink more water, as it helps flush things through your kidneys … eat more fiber for your gut, and hold the alcohol."

Amen also suggested eating brassicas, which include vegetables in the cabbage family, as they have a detoxifying effect.

The expert also highlighted the benefits of sauna use as a detox tool.

"The people who take the most saunas have the lowest incidence of Alzheimer's disease," he stated.

A healthy mental state will help support a healthier brain, experts agree.

"Stop believing every stupid thing you think," Amen advised.

Keeping your body healthy and immune from infections is key to overall health, according to Amen.

The doctor suggested optimizing vitamin D intake, which can help support the brain and immune system.

The brain specialist recommends having a hormone balance check done every year, as any imbalances can interfere with the brain and increase Alzheimer’s risk.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Diabesity," a term referring to the parallel occurrence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, can be a major threat to overall health, the doctor warned.

"You really want to care about your weight," Amen said.

Weight and diet play an important role in brain health, as Amen's research has shown that as weight increases, the size and function of the brain decreases.

"Being overweight, you automatically have 10 of the 11 risk factors, because being overweight lowers blood flow, accelerates aging, increases inflammation and changes your hormones in a negative way," he said.

"Be mindful of only loving food that loves you back."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

Sleep is crucial for a high-functioning mind, as an adequate night’s slumber "washes" the brain every night, Amen noted.

Better sleep translates to improved memory, energy, blood flow and decision-making, the doctor said, and should be a priority when working to prevent Alzheimer’s. 

Research developments in Alzheimer’s disease, including newly approved blood tests for early detection, have helped patients get diagnosed sooner.

As the common dementia has been on the rise among younger individuals, the spotlight is on ways to prevent or slow the disease.

Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California, spoke with Fox News Digital in an interview about Alzheimer’s risk and management.

FIRST BLOOD TEST FOR ALZHEIMER'S DIAGNOSIS CLEARED BY FDA

"Alzheimer's starts in your brain decades before you have any symptoms," he said. "So, a 59-year-old woman I diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease likely had negative changes in her brain in her 20s."

"It's really never too early to think about protecting your brain and your mind."

Amen, who also authored the book "Preventing Alzheimer’s," confirmed that half of Alzheimer’s cases are preventable, according to recent findings.

This can be done through nurturing brain health and treating the 11 major risk factors that "steal your mind," he said.

To remember the factors that can help ward off Alzheimer's, Amen created the acronym "BRIGHTMINDS" as follows.

Low blood flow is the No. 1 brain imaging predictor of Alzheimer’s disease, according to the doctor.

Alcohol, marijuana, caffeine, nicotine, sedentary behavior and excess weight or obesity can all decrease blood flow, thus should be avoided.

To promote blood flow, Amen suggests "walking like you’re late," which could entail walking 30 minutes a day — alternating between three minutes of normal walking and three minutes of fast walking.

"Do that five times for 30 minutes, and it increases blood flow to your brain," he said. 

Along with retirement and aging can come a slowdown in learning and cognitive activity, leading to a higher Alzheimer’s risk, Amen said.

'I'M A NEUROLOGIST — HERE'S WHY DEMENTIA IS RISING AND HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISK’

He encourages retirees to learn something new every day to keep the brain active and healthy.

Inflammation is a "major cause" of psychiatric issues, Amen revealed, as well as conditions like cancer, arthritis and heart disease.

Flossing is an easy way to reduce inflammation in the gums and help prevent gum disease, which is a gateway to brain disease, according to the doctor.

"Genes aren't a death sentence," Amen said. "What they should be is a wake-up call."

The doctor said everyone should take steps to discover which diseases run in the family and then follow a daily prevention program.

STROKE, DEMENTIA AND DEPRESSION SHARE THESE 17 PREVENTABLE RISK FACTORS

"I have heart disease and obesity in my family," he said. "I don't have heart disease, and I'm not overweight. Why? Because I'm on an obesity heart disease prevention program every day of my life."

Concussions and head trauma are a "major cause" of psychiatric problems, Amen described, and should be avoided.

"Don't text and drive," he warned.

Some well-known toxins like alcohol, marijuana and other drugs are known to have negative impacts on overall health.

But some not-so-obvious toxins can include lead, mold, mercury from fish, and even general anesthesia, Amen cautioned.

"You always want to support your organs in detoxification," he said. "Drink more water, as it helps flush things through your kidneys … eat more fiber for your gut, and hold the alcohol."

Amen also suggested eating brassicas, which include vegetables in the cabbage family, as they have a detoxifying effect.

The expert also highlighted the benefits of sauna use as a detox tool.

"The people who take the most saunas have the lowest incidence of Alzheimer's disease," he stated.

A healthy mental state will help support a healthier brain, experts agree.

"Stop believing every stupid thing you think," Amen advised.

Keeping your body healthy and immune from infections is key to overall health, according to Amen.

The doctor suggested optimizing vitamin D intake, which can help support the brain and immune system.

The brain specialist recommends having a hormone balance check done every year, as any imbalances can interfere with the brain and increase Alzheimer’s risk.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

"Diabesity," a term referring to the parallel occurrence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, can be a major threat to overall health, the doctor warned.

"You really want to care about your weight," Amen said.

Weight and diet play an important role in brain health, as Amen's research has shown that as weight increases, the size and function of the brain decreases.

"Being overweight, you automatically have 10 of the 11 risk factors, because being overweight lowers blood flow, accelerates aging, increases inflammation and changes your hormones in a negative way," he said.

"Be mindful of only loving food that loves you back."

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

Sleep is crucial for a high-functioning mind, as an adequate night’s slumber "washes" the brain every night, Amen noted.

Better sleep translates to improved memory, energy, blood flow and decision-making, the doctor said, and should be a priority when working to prevent Alzheimer’s. 

Public health nurses are working in “dangerous and unsanitary” conditions and facing rising threats to their safety, the Democratic Labour Party warned on Monday, as the party’s president called for urgent government action following attacks on nurses.

Senator Andre Worrell chided the administration for what he called “chronic mismanagement, political indifference, and failure to prioritise frontline workers who continue to work under dangerous and unsanitary conditions”.

In a media release, triggered by the recent attack on nurses at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Senator Worrell expressed concern over rising security threats faced by nurses and the lack of security provided for them.

“While they grapple with outbreaks and poor infrastructure, we have seen in recent weeks multiple attacks on nurses while travelling to and from work and at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital,” he said.

“We extend our support to the affected nurses and wish them a full recovery while calling on the government to ensure that counselling and security measures are provided without delay. Adequate security must also be deployed at healthcare facilities to protect both staff and patients.”

Senator Worrell said the situation is “particularly dire” at the Psychiatric Hospital, “where nurse-to-patient ratios have fallen well below international standards due to staff shortages and government austerity.”

“Current staffing levels reportedly see a mere three nurses attending to as many as 54 to 60 patients per ward, with no on-site security present to assist in emergencies. This not only endangers nurses but also places patients at risk and makes it impossible to deliver quality care,” he admitted.

Senator Worrell also addressed the recent outbreak at St Bernard’s Primary School–which health officials suspect is hand, foot and mouth disease–which resulted in the closure of the school for two days last week.

He called for more openness from health authorities: “This approach to public health management must change. We urge the Chief Medical Officer and the Ministry of Health to commit to a transparent approach with timely updates and clear communication to the public, not secrecy and public relations.”

Senator Worrell also urged the ministry to “abandon its top-down defensive approach and instead embrace a culture of inclusion, feedback, and openness. Nurses, patients, and communities must have a voice in shaping the future of healthcare. Ignoring these has led us to this crisis.”

He said the DLP remains steadfast in its commitment to “defending healthcare workers, promoting patient-centred reform, and restoring a system in which health is a right, not a privilege, and certainly not a political afterthought.” (LG)

The post DLP calls for urgent steps to protect frontline healthcare workers appeared first on Barbados Today.

The growing demand for medical care outside the United States and other high-cost markets has strengthened the Dominican Republic‘s position as a regional benchmark for health tourism.

International patients, especially Dominicans residing in the United States and U.S. citizens with limited coverage, come to the country for the combination of clinical quality, short wait times, and competitive prices offered by the country’s private centers.

This was reported by the Dominican Association of Health Tourism ( ADTS ), indicating that the network of member institutions operates under international standards and has bilingual staff, modern infrastructure, and global certifications.

Initiatives such as SENASA’s Larimar plan, which allows Dominicans abroad to receive local care with guaranteed coverage, and “health remittance” projects (prepaid medical packages) further expand the potential market.

“With more than two million Dominicans residing in the U.S. and a significant number of underinsured Americans, the demand for procedures such as preventive checkups, minimally invasive surgery, advanced dentistry, and fertility treatments continues to rise,” they report.

Data from The Commonwealth Fund indicates that some 30 million people in the U.S. lack health insurance, while 45 million have limited coverage, driving the search for affordable, quality alternatives.

For local healthcare providers, this scenario presents a concrete opportunity to expand their portfolio of services geared toward international patients, integrate telemedicine and remote postoperative follow-up solutions, strengthen alliances with insurance companies and medical facility providers, generate foreign currency and specialized employment opportunities, and raise the standard of the national healthcare system.

Backed by its air connectivity, favorable investment climate, and renowned hospitality, the Dominican Republic strengthens its leadership as a health and wellness destination in the Caribbean, offering a cost-effective, high-quality alternative for patients from around the world.

Santo Domingo.— Nineteen tests were positive for the virus in respiratory samples analyzed by the Dr. Defilló National Reference Laboratory, according to the epidemiological bulletin for week 25 of this year.

According to reports, respiratory viruses continue to be detected, with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) predominating, both with a 10.5% positivity rate.

The bulletin for week 25 records a decrease in COVID-19 transmission, with a positivity rate of 5.3%.

Recommendations

The Ministry of Public Health urges the population to get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19, especially those in at-risk groups.

It also recommends wearing a mask indoors, washing your hands frequently, and maintaining a well-ventilated room.

It indicates that if the patient experiences a persistent fever or difficulty breathing, they should visit a health center immediately.

It also suggests seeking guidance only from official sources and avoiding the dissemination of unverified information.

Dengue and malaria

In the last four weeks, 16 cases of dengue fever have been confirmed. Through week 24 of this year, 134 cases had been confirmed, and two additional cases were reported last week.

The largest concentrations were in Espaillat province, with 14 cases; La Vega, with 12; Puerto Plata, with 11; San Pedro de Macorís, with nine; Duarte, with eight; Monte Cristi, with six; and Santo Domingo, with six.

The latest two cases involve a three-year-old boy from Santiago and a 13-year-old girl from Santo Domingo Este.

Meanwhile, as of last week, 23 cases of malaria have been confirmed, 22 of which are women and one is a man.

The provinces with the highest number of cases are La Altagracia, with five; San Cristóbal, with three; Santo Domingo, with two; San Pedro de Macorís, with two; and La Romana, with two cases.

From week 1 to week 25, a total of 450 confirmed cases of malaria were reported to the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE), with 60% of the cases involving men.

According to the Ministry of Public Health report, the hotspots of transmission are centered in San Juan province, with 226 cases, and Azua province, with 183 cases.

Maternal deaths

The epidemiological report indicated that two maternal deaths were reported last week involving women aged 18 and 33.

As of this week, the country has recorded 81 maternal deaths nationwide.

He noted that 46% of the cases came from Santiago, with 15; Santo Domingo, with 12; and La Altagracia, with 10.

Forty-three of the cases are Dominicans, and 38 are Haitians.

Infant Deaths

In the penultimate epidemiological week, 31 infant deaths were reported. In comparison, so far this year, there have been a cumulative total of 809 deaths, which, according to health authorities, represents a 24% decrease compared to the same period last year.