The Ministry of Health advises that there has been an increase in respiratory illnesses affecting children, especially those under two years of age. Although this is not uncommon during this time of year, there has been a significant increase in the number and severity of cases compared to previous years the ministry said in a media release.
This has been most apparent at the Paediatric Unit at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC), Sangre Grande Hospital and San Fernando General Hospital. Respiratory symptoms include:
• Fever
• Some respiratory difficulty or problems breathing and
• Wheezing
The Ministry of Health says public hospitals have instituted several mechanisms to deal with the increased in-patient attendance and would like to inform the general public of the following:
• Children, specifically those under two, with symptoms of respiratory illnesses should seek medical attention, especially if there are other underlying medical conditions;
• Keep your child at home if he/she has symptoms of respiratory illness. Do not take your child to daycare, schools or public gatherings;
• When dealing with flu-like symptoms, maintain proper hand and mouth hygiene;
• Take the child to the nearest public health institution such as a public health centre, district health facility, hospital or a private medical practitioner.