Health Ministry Urges Jamaicans to Prepare — Chronic Illness Patients and Pregnant Women Advised to Take Extra Precautions

KINGSTON, Jamaica — With the island bracing for the effects of worsening weather conditions linked to Tropical Storm Melissa, the Ministry of Health & Wellness is calling on persons with chronic illnesses and pregnant women to make early preparations and take all necessary precautions.

According to the Ministry, individuals living with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and asthma should ensure they have an adequate supply of their medication on hand. If evacuation becomes necessary, they are urged to take all prescriptions and medications with them to shelters or other safe locations.

Health officials are reminding these persons to continue taking their medications exactly as prescribed, even if they are away from home.

Meanwhile, pregnant women, especially those within one month of their due date, are advised to relocate to family or friends living near a hospital or maternity centre to ensure quick access to medical care if needed.

The Ministry further noted that all public hospitals will remain open during the inclement weather period.

Evacuation Tips

If evacuation becomes necessary, residents are encouraged to pack essential items, including:

• Medical supplies: prescriptions, medications, dentures.
• Disaster essentials: flashlight, batteries, radio, first aid kit, bottled water.
• Clothing and bedding: including diapers, toilet tissue, soap, and feminine hygiene products.
• Non-perishable and special foods: canned goods, dry foods, and items suitable for diabetics or babies.
• Important documents: birth, marriage, and death certificates, passports, land titles, and immunization cards.
• Entertainment: games, books, and small comfort items for children.

Food Safety

The Health Ministry is also urging residents to practice safe food storage during the storm period:

• Keep food away from chemicals like kerosene, bleach, or insect sprays.
• Avoid using tins that are dented, bulging, or damaged.
• Store dry foods like flour, rice, sugar, and crackers in airtight containers.
• Keep an emergency food bag ready in case you must evacuate — stocked with canned and dry items only.

Water Safety

Residents are being reminded to:

• Store water in clean, covered containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Avoid using containers that previously held chemicals.
• Always use a clean container with a handle to dip up stored water.

The Ministry of Health & Wellness continues to stress the importance of early preparation, especially for those most vulnerable. Jamaicans are urged to stay tuned to official weather updates and follow safety advisories as the island braces for possible impact from Tropical Storm Melissa.

Mckoy’s News will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as they become available.