Health

BNOCL Demonstrates Commitment to Community Health

In a heartfelt gesture of community support, the Barbados National Oil Company Limited (BNOCL) was pleased to be a bronze sponsor to the Myeloma, Lymphoma, and Leukemia Foundation of Barbados (MLLF) 3K Family Fun Walk, which took place on Sunday, February 4, 2024.

BNOCL, a leading entity in Barbados’ energy sector, recognizes the importance of investing in the well-being of the community it serves. By supporting the MLLF, BNOCL aims to contribute to the foundation’s efforts in raising awareness about these critical health issues and providing much-needed assistance to affected individuals and their families.

The 3K Family Fun Walk was an afternoon filled with camaraderie, fitness, and a shared commitment to a healthier community. The walk started and concluded at the Bay Street Esplanade.

BNOCL’s Marketing & Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Samantha Hazlewood-Ermay, stated, “Our Company is dedicated to supporting worthwhile causes especially one such as this. Various forms of cancer effect so many families in our society and we need to bring awareness to this”.

BNOCL remains committed to fostering a culture of corporate social responsibility, and this collaboration with the Myeloma, Lymphoma, and Leukemia Foundation is a testament to the company’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond the realm of energy. (PR)

Caption: Members of BNOCL donating a cheque for $2500 to the Myeloma, Lymphoma, and Leukemia Foundation

Health

Health Ministry Confirms Oropouche Virus Cases In Barbados

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed two adult cases of the Oropouche virus disease (OROV) in Barbados.

OROV, which circulates in Central and South America and the Caribbean, can be transmitted to humans through bites from midges (commonly known as sand flies) and certain Culex mosquitoes, both commonly found in bushy areas and stagnant water.

Symptoms of the Oropouche virus disease are similar to other mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue. They may begin four to eight days after being bitten by an infected insect and include sudden onset of fever, headache, chills, joint pain and stiffness, and sometimes nausea and vomiting.

While most individuals recover within seven days, some may remain ill for weeks. There is no specific treatment for OROV, but infected persons can be treated for their symptoms. Pregnant women are advised to take extra precautions.

The Ministry advises the public to adopt protective measures against mosquito and insect bites to prevent contracting OROV. These measures include:

Using insect screens and repellents.
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially from dusk to dawn when the vectors are most active.
Eliminating areas of stagnant water around properties to prevent mosquito breeding.

Particularly during periods of heavy rain, the public is urged to search their homes and discard any stagnant water that may accumulate in empty containers.

The Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue to monitor the situation closely. (PR/GIS)

Health

WORLD AIDS DAY – TODAY DECEMBER 1

Today December 1st is World AIDS Day. Under the Theme ‘Take the right path: My health my right’ the World Health Organisation, (WHO) calls for and reminds the global community that the world can end AIDS if everyone’s rights are protected.

Join the movement to address the inequalities that hinder progress in the fight.