Coronavirus, Influenza and Dengue Fever Updates for Jamaica

It seems that the Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is by no means finished with us yet. Earlier today, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told journalists at a press briefing (full audio here) that:  “As of 6am Geneva time this morning, there are 24,363 confirmed 2019-nCoV cases in China, and 490 deaths. … More Coronavirus, Influenza and Dengue Fever Updates for Jamaica

A Word on Malaria: Jamaica Remains Free of the Mosquito-borne Disease

There have reportedly been two imported cases of malaria in Jamaica. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has explained that since 2012, the country has been free of the disease. It goes without saying, however, that those traveling to countries where malaria is present must take precautions. It’s a horrible disease, which killed 405,000 people … More A Word on Malaria: Jamaica Remains Free of the Mosquito-borne Disease

Ministry of Health and Wellness Update on Dengue Fever Outbreak (Delivered to Parliament, Tuesday, November 12)

The ongoing outbreak of dengue fever continues to create anxiety and concern among the general public, especially in relation to young children and other vulnerable Jamaicans.  But panicking won’t help. Everyone needs to take responsibility for their health and the health of others. And it’s amazing how irresponsible some citizens are – almost deliberately so. In … More Ministry of Health and Wellness Update on Dengue Fever Outbreak (Delivered to Parliament, Tuesday, November 12)

Ministry of Health Advises Continued Caution Against Viral Illnesses

Minister of Health Christopher Tufton was scheduled to visit the community of Gregory Park in St. Catherine today. The whole of the Portmore area is quite a “hot spot” for mosquitoes; after all, it was built on or near wetlands. The problem of dengue fever continues, especially among children, where suspected cases have increased. Be … More Ministry of Health Advises Continued Caution Against Viral Illnesses

A Letter to the Editor from WMW Jamaica on the Riverton Dump Fire

The fire is not yet out, and many Kingston residents continue to suffer tonight. Firefighters continue to work on subduing and containing the fire, which is now in its third day. WMW Jamaica (formerly Women’s Media Watch, and celebrating its 30th anniversary this year) has written a letter to the Editor regarding the health impacts of … More A Letter to the Editor from WMW Jamaica on the Riverton Dump Fire

There Are No Cases of Yellow Fever in Jamaica

This week is Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week. We never used to worry too much about these dangerous little creatures (of which the female is, in fact, deadlier than the male) – until the Chikungunya virus (Chik V) and the Zika virus came along, riding on the climate change wave. Dengue fever has always been around, … More There Are No Cases of Yellow Fever in Jamaica

Focus on Montego Bay, Shackelia’s Mission and Kemesha’s Inspiration: Jamaica Weekly Review: Wednesday, January 24, 2018

It has not been an easy week in Jamaica, I think it’s fair to say. Our island has had a bit of drama. On the plus side, the weather is gentle and warm… and I hear a pair of parrots chatting to each other in our back yard. Yes, we have urban parrots, woodpeckers, warblers … More Focus on Montego Bay, Shackelia’s Mission and Kemesha’s Inspiration: Jamaica Weekly Review: Wednesday, January 24, 2018

Environment and Climate Change Stories: Jamaica, the Caribbean and the World: May 13, 2017

Indigenous peoples fighting climate change and the fossil fuel industry; an island up for sale; migratory birds and hurricanes; trafficking in wildlife and more in this week’s bunch of articles. Click on the highlighted links for more information! Jamaica and the Caribbean: Jamaicans learning about climate change in China… 35 professionals from developing countries (including Panos … More Environment and Climate Change Stories: Jamaica, the Caribbean and the World: May 13, 2017

Monday Review: What’s Happening in Jamaica, May 8, 2017

It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these. Here’s an update of the week’s news and issues. I hope you find it useful! I am adding more links so you can read more about these stories. I’ve highlighted one or two “big stories” in purple. P.S. Happy Europe Day! That is actually tomorrow, … More Monday Review: What’s Happening in Jamaica, May 8, 2017

Environment/Climate Change News, Sunday, July 17, 2016: Mosquito Fogging, Overwater Suites, Haiti’s Greening, More

Here’s my latest selection of ten interesting articles. I hope you find something to explore here. I have included links (some are embedded, just click on the word/s). Feedback is welcome! Jamaica and the Caribbean: The International Seabed Authority, which regulates deep seabed mining, is currently holding its 22nd session at its Kingston headquarters, and is making an … More Environment/Climate Change News, Sunday, July 17, 2016: Mosquito Fogging, Overwater Suites, Haiti’s Greening, More