Gastrointestinal illness continues to increase, and health officials have identified a new virus cause among lab samples – rotavirus.

This rise in cases, in adults and children, has been seen since late April until present.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness reported that for the diarrheal samples tested, three samples from late May and early June showed the presence of rotavirus, in addition to the bacterial foodborne pathogens that have been previously identified. Rotavirus is a very contagious agent spread by contact with objects or persons contaminated with infected stool.

Vomiting was a prominent symptom for many persons, according to health authorities.

As a result, members of the public are being urged to employ proper hand hygiene methods, such as washing their hands regularly, especially before eating, and to continue to be cautious when purchasing ready-to-eat food items. 

The uptick in cases in persons older than five years moved from 34 at the end of April, to 76 cases in the week ending May 11, 2024.

Since then, weekly numbers have been falling, most recently to 46 cases in the week ending June 15, 2024, but are still above the alert threshold. At this time of the year, the alert level for this age group is fewer than eight cases.

In children under five years old, the number of cases has moved from eight for the week ending April 27, to peaking at 27 cases in the week ending May 18, 2024.

Persons are encouraged to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and dry them with disposable tissue, especially after changing nappies, using the toilet, or before eating.  If soap and water are not available, the use of an alcohol-based hand sanitiser is recommended.

Those who purchase items to eat should ensure that sellers conduct appropriate food handling practices, such as protecting food from flies and other vectors; using suitable utensils to touch food; and maintaining hot or cold items at the correct temperatures. Hot foods must be kept above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and cold foods at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

Health officials further advise that people keep unwashed hands away from the eyes, nose, and mouth, and to generally avoid touching these areas as germs can enter the body this way. (PR/GIS)

While doctors in Barbados can prescribe cannabis, they must follow a stringent legal process and obtain the necessary permissions from the authorities.

Superintendent Anthony Warner of The Barbados Police Service made this clear while speaking at The National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) panel discussion titled “The Grassroots of Medicinal and Recreational Cannabis.” The event brought together various stakeholders to discuss the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation in Barbados.

Addressing what he said was a common misconception about the role of law enforcement in interpreting legislation, Warner emphasized that the police are not responsible for interpreting the law but for enforcing it within the framework established by the state. “It probably would be a dangerous thing if you have to leave it to the police to interpret the law because they might do it in their own interest,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of adherence to the legal standards set by the state.

One of the key topics discussed was the recent amendment to the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act CAP 131, which introduces a more nuanced approach to handling minor cannabis offences. Warner clarified that while the possession of any amount of cannabis remains illegal, the amendment, specifically section 6A, introduces a fixed penalty system for individuals found with 14 grams or less of cannabis. This system allows police officers to issue a ticket instead of making an arrest, provided the individual does not challenge the nature of the substance.

“Before, if you got any amount, a stem, a seed, a stalk, the police could have arrested you for the smallest amount of cannabis. What the law does now is tell us to give a different approach on how the police would treat that type of offence,” Warner explained.

Addressing the community’s concerns about cannabis use and the role of medical practitioners, Warner stressed the legal requirements for prescribing medicinal cannabis. He noted that while doctors can prescribe cannabis, they must follow a stringent legal process and obtain the necessary permissions from the authorities. This ensures that the use of cannabis remains regulated and does not slip into misuse or abuse.

The Superintendent also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the police and the community. He believes that such interactions foster mutual understanding and trust, making it safer and more comfortable for citizens to communicate with law enforcement. 

Warner provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of cannabis legislation in Barbados. His insights highlighted the balance the law seeks to achieve between enforcement and leniency, ensuring that while cannabis possession remains an offence, minor infractions are dealt with in a way that is fair and proportional. 

The discussion underscored the ongoing need for community engagement and legal clarity as Barbados navigates the complex terrain of cannabis regulation. (PR)

Mr. Joel Barrow, Nursing Officer at the Psychiatric Hospital, is urging Barbadians to be fully aware of the potential physiological and psychological impacts of using cannabis. Speaking at a recently held panel discussion titled “The Grassroots of Medicinal and Recreational Cannabis,” hosted by the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA), Barrow emphasized the serious long-term consequences of cannabis use.

“Marijuana, also known as cannabis, weed, herb, dank, exo or exotic, gas, and marijuana, is a psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the brain through its two main compounds: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol),” explained Barrow. “THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the ‘high’ that users experience, whereas CBD is non-psychoactive and used for its medicinal and therapeutic benefits.”

He detailed the various methods of cannabis consumption, noting that inhalation is the most common. “People smoke marijuana using joints, bongs, hand pipes, blunts, vapes, or pens,” he said, providing a visual example of someone rolling a marijuana joint. “Cannabis can also be ingested orally through tinctures, oils, chewing gum, edibles, pills, capsules, beverages, and cannabis-infused butter,” he said.

Barrow elaborated on the physiological and psychological effects of cannabis on the body. Immediate effects include bloodshot eyes due to vasodilation, dry mouth from reduced saliva production, and increased appetite, commonly known as the “munchies.” He illustrated these effects with relatable visuals and examples.

Highlighting more serious concerns, Barrow discussed the cardiovascular impact of cannabis, such as tachycardia (increased heart rate), fluctuating blood pressure, and euphoria. “While euphoria might sound appealing, it can also lead to mood swings, hallucinations, and paranoia,” he warned, using visual examples to emphasize these mood alterations.

Barrow also addressed the cognitive effects of cannabis, noting that it can lead to confusion, anxiety, restlessness, and a distorted sense of time. “These cognitive impairments can result in poor decision-making and increasing the risk of accidents, particularly when driving,” he explained.

Furthermore, Barrow highlighted the potential long-term mental health implications of cannabis use. “Cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of psychosis, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders,” he stated, emphasizing the need for public awareness.

Addressing reproductive health concerns, Barrow mentioned that cannabis negatively impacts sperm count, and disrupts hormonal balances in women, affecting fertility. He used vivid imagery to underscore the long-term effects of cannabis on physical health, including lung infections, gum disease, and a decrease in intelligence quotient (IQ).

Mr. Joel Barrow’s presentation at the NCSA panel provided a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted effects of cannabis on the mind and body. His insights emphasized the need for public education and awareness about both the potential therapeutic benefits and the significant risks associated with cannabis use. (PR)