the Ministry of Health is reintroducing two key initiatives: the circulation of protocols for the management of individuals infected with respiratory viruses and the procurement of face masks for distribution across various sectors.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is closely monitoring the increasing influenza activity in several regions worldwide and continues to strengthen public health interventions geared towards reducing local transmission and safeguarding public health. Among the circulating respiratory viruses globally, influenza has been primarily linked to the recent increases in cases and hospitalizations, particularly Influenza A (H3N2). This subtype has been detected in Saint Lucia both in 2025 and in previous years. To date, we have not recorded cases of H3N2 sub-clave K.
As we navigate the current flu season, which extends from October to March, and in response to the global increase in circulation of influenza A H3N2 sub clave K, the Ministry of Health is reintroducing two key initiatives: the circulation of protocols for the management of individuals infected with respiratory viruses and the procurement of face masks for distribution across various sectors.
These protocols will serve as structured guidelines to effectively manage situations involving individuals infected with respiratory viruses, ensuring the safety of all while minimizing the risk of transmission.
Face masks have been proven effective in reducing the spread of respiratory viruses, making them a vital component of our prevention strategy. As such, face masks will now be made available at no cost to the public, workplaces, and other institutions. We encourage everyone to make use of these resources as a preventive measure.
In light of these developments, the Ministry urges the public and stakeholders to remain vigilant and take preventive action. This includes:
- Practicing good respiratory hygiene — cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and wear a mask when in crowded or indoor public settings, especially if you have flu-like symptoms.
- Stay home if you are unwell — minimize contact with other persons; rest, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if you are in a high-risk group.
- Getting vaccinated as soon as possible, especially if you are in a high-risk group (older adults, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions and young children) or if you are a frontline/essential worker. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now available in country.
Members of the public who wish to get vaccinated can do so by visiting any community wellness centre, Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The Ministry also reminds the public that the Seasonal Influenza Vaccine is available at all wellness centres island-wide. Vaccination remains one of the most effective measures to reduce the severity of disease, prevent complications, and protect our wider community, especially those at highest risk.
The public is encouraged to take advantage of the availability of both vaccines as part of maintaining good health and preventing the spread of respiratory infections during this heightened period.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs thanks the public for their ongoing vigilance and commitment to ensuring a safer and healthier Saint Lucia. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation internationally and locally, and will provide updates as needed.