By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |
Suriname Confirms Local Chikungunya Outbreak; Health Officials Heighten Surveillance
Suriname has confirmed an outbreak of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus, with health authorities reporting that none of the individuals who tested positive had travelled overseas in recent weeks—indicating local transmission.
The Ministry of Health said laboratory confirmation was conducted by the Central Laboratory of the Bureau of Public Health and the Academic Hospital in Paramaribo. Eight cases have been confirmed so far.
Public health officials are actively investigating the cases, tracing contacts, conducting additional testing, and increasing surveillance measures to prevent further spread of the virus.
Chikungunya is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes—the same vector responsible for dengue, Zika, and yellow fever. Symptoms typically include sudden-onset fever, severe joint pain and swelling, headache, fatigue, and, in some cases, a rash. The virus is not transmitted directly from person to person, and infection usually results in lifelong immunity.
The Ministry has advised individuals experiencing fever and joint pain or swelling to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, and to use paracetamol instead. Residents are also encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, rest, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Cayman Islands Prepare for Potential Cuban Migrant Influx
Meanwhile, the Cayman Islands Government is preparing for a possible increase in irregular migration from Cuba, amid concerns over worsening economic conditions on the island.
Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, addressing the Public Accounts Committee, said the situation in the region has made risk management an increasingly critical function of the civil service. He pointed to illegal migration as one of the most pressing issues currently facing the territory.
Manderson noted that recent geopolitical developments—including United States military action in Venezuela and Washington’s control over seized Venezuelan oil—could further disrupt fuel supplies to Cuba, potentially worsening conditions there and encouraging outward migration.
The developments come as the United States continues to maintain a hardline stance toward Cuba, raising concerns that reduced access to fuel could significantly impact daily life on the island.
United States Withdraws from World Health Organization
In international news, the United States has officially withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), removing one of the UN agency’s largest traditional donors.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order formalizing the withdrawal, citing dissatisfaction with the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and alleging undue political influence within the organization. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said the decision followed what it described as the WHO’s failure to reform.
The WHO has rejected those claims, with its Director-General stating that the withdrawal represents a loss not only for the United States but for global public health. The agency highlighted its work combating polio, HIV/AIDS, and maternal mortality, and its leadership in international tobacco control.
Washington has not paid its WHO membership fees for 2024 and 2025, a shortfall that has already resulted in significant job losses within the organization.
