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Showing posts with the label Health

BODY of 26-Year-Old Female Ministry Employee Found Inside Her El Socorro Home

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The body of a woman was found inside her home in El Socorro on Friday evening (5th June, 2026). The deceased has been identified as 26-year-old Aquilah Rebekah Henry of Oudan Road, El Socorro. She was an employee of the Ministry of National Security, attached to the Police Administration Building as a Clerk II. According to reports, Police and Emergency Health Services responded to a call for assistance at Henry’s residence, shortly after 6:30 PM. Upon arrival, they discovered her unresponsive inside a room of the home, in an apparent suicide. Henry’s father told Officers that he had last seen his daughter earlier that morning. Concerned after not hearing from her throughout the day, he later went to check on her and made the tragic discovery. Medical personnel and a District Medical Officer (DMO) were summoned to the scene, where Henry was officially pronounced dead. Investigations are continuing into the circumstances surrounding her death. If you or someone you know is struggling wi...

Chaguanas Vendor Arrested After Selling Potatoes From Dump Along Narsaloo Ramaya Road

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UPDATE 2:   The vendor, identified as 35-year-old Rajindera Ali of Enterprise, Chaguanas, appeared before a Chaguanas District Judge on Thursday (4th June 2026), where he was granted $20,000 bail after pleading not guilty to charges stemming from the incident. Ali was arrested following an operation along Narsaloo Ramaya Road, near Price Plaza. Investigators claim that during enquiries, the vendor admitted to obtaining several sacks of potatoes from the Claxton Bay Dump before allegedly offering them for sale. He has been charged with littering and illegally operating a roadside stall. However, Police say additional charges may be laid, pending the outcome of public health tests being conducted on the potatoes. Authorities are seeking to determine whether the produce posed a risk to consumers and whether any public health laws were breached. UPDATE: The vendor has publicly disputed claims that he was selling potatoes allegedly salvaged from the Claxton Bay landfill, describing th...

PTSC Issues Statement On Bus Incident Near Macoya

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UPDATE (02/06/26): While the statement issued by the PTSC indicated that the driver was undergoing medical treatment, there are unconfirmed reports that he subsequently died at Hospital.  There has been no official confirmation of those reports from either the PTSC or health authorities at this time, and the name of the driver has not been disclosed. According to the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC), at approximately 4:25 PM on Saturday afternoon (30th May, 2026), the driver of vehicle HDT 4003 experienced a medical emergency while en route to Port-of-Spain. As a result, the bus veered off the roadway in the vicinity of Macoya. Emergency response personnel arrived promptly at the scene and assisted the passengers and the driver. The affected passengers and the driver were transported to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mount Hope, where they are currently undergoing medical treatment. The Corporation said it “reaffirms its commitment to the highes...

Chickenpox Cases Detected At Sangre Grande Hospital — Health Ministry Issues Public Advisory

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The Ministry of Health is advising the public that the Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) is actively managing several suspected and probable cases of varicella (commonly known as chickenpox), identified among healthcare workers at the Sangre Grande Hospital Campus. In a Media Release a short while ago this afternoon (Thursday 28th May, 2026), the Ministry said the affected staff members within the ERHA were “ identified across several departments, and immediate infection prevention and control measures were implemented in accordance with established public health protocols. These measures include isolating symptomatic individuals, contact tracing, enhanced environmental cleaning, occupational health surveillance, and monitoring exposed persons.” The Ministry notes that at present, there are no known cases within other Regional Health Authorities.  “Healthcare services continue to operate, and there is no indication of widespread community transmission associated with these ...

Schools NOT Closing Due To Hantavirus Cases — Health Ministry Warns of Fake News

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The Ministry of Health is advising the public that a memo currently circulating, which purports to be from the Ministry regarding the temporary closure of schools, is fake news. The memo, dated 10th May, 2026, falsely states that “all schools will be temporarily closed for a period of two (2) weeks effective Monday May 11, 2026 due to health concerns relating to the recent detection of Hantavirus cases within several communities.” ( Click/Tap Image To Enlarge ) In a Media Release today (Monday 11th May, 2026), the Ministry advises that “ the memo in question is fake and therefore members of the public are urged not to share or disseminate the inaccurate information. For verified and official updates, persons are advised to visit the Ministry's official website and social media platforms.” Please be guided accordingly.

Hantavirus: Health Ministry Issues Advisory — ‘Closely Monitoring’ WHO Reports

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In an Advisory issued this afternoon (Friday 8th May, 2026), the Ministry of Health said it is closely monitoring reports issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding a cluster of Hantavirus cases linked to an international cruise ship on route to the Canary Islands. At this time, there are no confirmed cases in Trinidad and Tobago and the global risk remains low as international health authorities confirmed eight (8) cases, including three (3) deaths among passengers. More than 100 passengers remain on the ship, and the WHO is monitoring their health.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Hantavirus infection symptoms typically start as a flu-like illness, approximately one (1) to eight (8) weeks after exposure, characterized by fever, severe muscle aches (especially in thighs/back), fatigue, and headaches. Within four (4) to ten (10) days, however, this can rapidly progress to severe respiratory issues, including coughing, shortness of ...

NCRHA Rejects False Claims of Body Bag Shortage

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The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) said it “categorically denies claims circulating online regarding a shortage of body bags.” In a Media Release on Thursday (16th April, 2026), the NCRHA said, “At present, there is no shortage, and supplies remain well-stocked, with additional routine stock incoming as part of the Authority's standard supply management processes.” The NCRHA is urging members of the public to “rely on verified information, as disseminated through the RHA's official pages and the Ministry of Health's official channels, and not be misled by content mischievously designed to create unnecessary concern and unrest among members of the public.” The Media Release concluded by saying, “The Authority remains committed to ensuring that all necessary resources are in place to provide quality, efficient care to all patients.”

Ambulance With Patient Onboard Crashes Into Car At Curepe Junction, Multiple Injuries Reported

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According to reports, an Ambulance from the North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA), with a patient onboard, crashed into a car at the Curepe Junction a short while ago this evening (Friday 3rd April, 2026), which then triggered multiple crashes and injuries. The Ambulance is alleged to have breached a red light and slammed into a car, which then crashed into two (2) taxi drivers and two (2) parked taxis on the roadway. The NCRHA Ambulance was said to be transporting a patient from the Arima Hospital to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mount Hope, when the incident occurred. Police are currently at the scene, with injured persons on the ground. Investigations are continuing.  More on this as it becomes available.  This is a developing story - refresh this page for updates. [Source: Ian Alleyne ]

Health Ministry Advises On Recall of Moringa Capsules

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The Ministry of Health, via its Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division (CFDD), is advising the public of a voluntary recall of Rosabella Moringa capsules, initiated by Ambrosia Brands LLC in February 2026. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), United States of America, Rosebella Moringa capsules have been linked to multiple cases of drug-resistant Salmonella infections. Illness caused by Salmonella infection usually develops within twelve (12) to seventy-two (72) hours and can last for four (4) to seven (7) days. In a Media Release today (Friday 27th March, 2026), the Ministry said, “The most common symptoms include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. While many individuals recover without treatment, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of experiencing severe infections.” Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, the Ministry is advising persons who may have purchased or are current...

Health Ministry Launches Learning Management System (LMS) For Public Healthcare Workers

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The Ministry of Health has launched a new Learning Management System (LMS) aimed at strengthening professional development and knowledge-sharing across Trinidad and Tobago's public health sector. The platform, unveiled on Friday (13th March, 2026) at the Ministry's Corporate Headquarters, was developed with support from the United States Government through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). In a Media Release on Saturday (14th March, 2026), the Ministry said, “The LMS will serve as a centralized digital hub for training, providing healthcare workers across the Ministry of Health and the Regional Health Authorities with structured and accessible opportunities for professional development.” According to the Ministry, “One of the first programmes introduced on the platform focuses on the District Health Information Software 2 [DHIS2], a widely used global health information system that enables realt...

Ministry of Health Clarifies Official Name of Couva Children’s Hospital

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The Ministry of Health said it wishes to correct the misleading headline published in the Trinidad Express article titled “The Couva Hospital Has No Name.” In a Media Release on Sunday (8th March, 2026), the Ministry said, “Contrary to the claim made in the headline, the facility was reverted to its original name, Couva Children’s Hospital, following approval by Cabinet in 2025. This information was provided to the reporter prior to publication.” The Ministry also notes that “signage bearing the name Couva Children’s Hospital has already been installed at the front of the building. In addition, an external sign of larger scale is currently in the procurement process and is expected to be installed soon.” The Media Release concluded by saying, “The Ministry of Health remains committed to ensuring that accurate information is shared with the public and encourages media houses to reflect verified information in their reporting.”

Ministry of Health Launches Online Drug Database

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Pictured Above: The Honourable Dr. Lackram Bodoe greets Mr. Ricardo Mohammed, President of the Pharmacy Board of Trinidad and Tobago. Also pictured (left of Minister Bodoe) are Mr. Glenwayne Suchit and Mr. Steve Lalchan of the Private Pharmacy Retail Business Association, along with Ms. Nisha Ali, Deputy Comptroller of the Customs and Excise Division. Ministry of Health representatives present included Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jeanine St. Bernard, Ms. Melanie Noel, Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Imtiaz Ali, Food and Drugs Inspector II, Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division and Ms. Anesa Siboo, Chief Pharmacist. The Ministry of Health announced the official launch of its Regulated Medicines and Substances Portal today (Wednesday 4th March, 2026), an online drug database designed to strengthen transparency, accessibility, and regulatory oversight within Trinidad and Tobago's health sector. In a Media Release, the Ministry said, “The platform provides public access to informatio...

Temporary Closure of Rio Claro Health Centre

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The Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) is informing members of the public that the Rio Claro Health Centre will be closed from 7:00 AM on Saturday (28th February, 2026) to facilitate maintenance works. During this temporary closure, services can be accessed at the Mayaro District Health Facility. Services at the Rio Claro Health Centre will resume at 8:00 AM on Monday (2nd March, 2026). The ERHA said it “apologizes for any inconvenience caused as we seek to continuously provide the highest quality healthcare services to our clients.” Please be guided accordingly.

Schoolboy Dies After Plunging From Fifth Floor of St. James Apartment Complex

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A teenage boy has died after allegedly falling from a Housing Development Corporation (HDC) apartment complex in St. James early Sunday morning (22nd February, 2026). The deceased has been identified as 13-year-old Armani Alleyne, a student of St. Mary’s Mucurapo Boys’ R.C. Primary School, where he was known as a talented and dedicated footballer. According to reports, the incident occurred at the HDC Vieux Fort development, where the teen was said to be battling a fever since returning home from school on Friday (20th February, 2026), after complaining of feeling unwell. He remained at home on Saturday as his illness persisted. Sometime that night, while asleep and still feverish, Alleyne reportedly rushed into his mother’s bedroom, shouting that he was hearing his brother’s voice calling him. Within moments, he turned and sprinted out of the room toward the balcony of the fifth-floor apartment. Tragically, before anyone could intervene, the boy leaped over the railing, plunging an es...

Prison Service Suffers Another Loss As Officer Dies At Hospital

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The Prison Officers’ Association (POA) is mourning the death of Prison Officer Sheldon Lewis, who passed away at Hospital on Wednesday (4th February, 2026) after suffering a medical condition. In a statement issued today (Thursday 5th February, 2026), President of the Prison Officers’ Association, Gerard Gordon, said “it is with a heavy and grieving heart that I acknowledge the passing of our brother, Prison Officer Sheldon Lewis, who sadly passed away yesterday at Hospital due to a medical condition. This loss cuts especially deep. Sheldon stood on the threshold of retirement next year, at the doorway of a season he had worked his entire career to reach. To have that moment taken from him is heartbreaking beyond words.” He added, “Once again, our Prison Service family is gutted — still trying to come to terms with the recent loss of another Officer , and now forced to confront yet another painful goodbye. These are not just colleagues we lose; they are brothers, friends, and family, b...

KI Persad Withdraws From CSM Finals Due To Health Concerns

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Three-time Chutney Soca Monarch Kris “KI” Persad (real name: Kris Veeshal Persad) has withdrawn from the Chutney Soca Monarch (CSM) Finals, citing health reasons. In a Media Release this morning (Thursday 5th February, 2026), Southex said KI “had a fainting incident on leaving the stage at the semi finals, he was taken to the Hospital by Ambulance, underwent tests and was given the all-clear. They had originally said that he may have fainted from a bit of dehydration.” According to Southex, KI traveled back to Canada, but his doctors have advised that he should rest for another two (2) weeks, “making it impossible for him to come back to Trinidad in time for the Grand Finals.” Southex said it “wishes KI a speedy recovery and we look forward to seeing him on our stages in the very near future.” The Grand Finals of the Chutney Soca Monarch will take place on Sunday (8th February, 2026) from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM (Midnight). The event will be held at Skinner Park in San Fernando.   Four...

Medical Product Alert: Falsified Cancer Medicine IBRANCE (Palbociclib)

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The Ministry of Health, via its Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division (CFDD), is advising of the WHO Medical Product Alert concerning falsified IBRANCE (palbociclib) capsules. The product is a cancer medicine used for the treatment of certain types of breast cancer in adults. In a Media Release today (Tuesday 3rd February, 2026), the Ministry said the falsified products deliberately misrepresent identity, composition and source, and the genuine manufacturer, Pfizer, has confirmed that the products mentioned in this alert are falsified. The WHO Alert stated that falsified IBRANCE (palbociclib) products have been detected in Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Lebanon, Libya and Türkiye. According to the Ministry, “Laboratory testing conducted by the genuine manufacturer confirmed that the falsified products contained no active pharmaceutical ingredient. Since these falsified medicines lack the required active ingredient, they must be considered unsafe and their use can lead to treatment failure, unc...

48-Year-Old Prisons Officer Collapses At Golden Grove Prison, Pronounced Dead At Hospital

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The Trinidad and Tobago Prison Service said it is “deeply saddened” by the passing of 48-year-old Steve Dookie, Prisons Officer II (Ag.) #2632, of Cumuto Road, Cumuto, on Wednesday (28th January, 2026). According to reports, Dookie was speaking with personnel in the dormitory area of the Golden Grove Prison, Arouca, when he suddenly collapsed.  Paramedics were immediately called, and he was conveyed to the Arima Hospital. However, despite emergency medical intervention, he subsequently passed away. In a Media Release on Thursday (29th January, 2026), the Prison Service said Officer Dookie, last attached to the Extended Remand Facility (ERF), who would have celebrated thirty (30) years of yeoman service this year, “was an active and dedicated member of the Service. He served with distinction as an integral part of the Prison Service Divali Committee and was also a valued member of the Prison Service Cricket Team, where his camaraderie and team spirit were well recognized. Mr. Carlos...

37-Year-Old Bank Employee Collapses, Dies At ‘Soaka Till Sunrise’ Fete In Chaguaramas

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A man is dead shortly after collapsing at a Carnival fete at O2 Park in Chaguaramas on Sunday morning (25th January, 2026). The deceased has been identified as 37-year-old Vishal Sookhoo of Red Hill, Arouca, who was a Senior Loans Officer at ANSA Bank. According to reports, Vishal was attending the Soaka Till Sunrise fete with a group of friends, when he complained of feeling unwell and suddenly collapsed, around 7:45 AM. Friends and on-site medical personnel immediately rendered assistance. He was subsequently conveyed to the St. James Medical Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival at 8:45 AM. An autopsy has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of death. A packet of non-prescription pills was allegedly found in Vishal’s possession, although authorities could not confirm what type of pills they are or whether he had consumed any. Officials have urged the public not to speculate on the cause of death, noting that autopsy results are pending. A Senior Police Official confi...

Baby Boy Found Unresponsive At San Fernando Home, Pronounced Dead At Hospital

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A baby boy was pronounced dead at the San Fernando General Hospital on Thursday afternoon (22nd January, 2026) after he was found unresponsive at his home in Embacadere, San Fernando. The deceased has been identified as two-and-a-half-month-old Azikeil Williams. According to reports, Azikeil was fed around 10:00 AM on Thursday morning and fell sleep on a couch afterwards. However, he was found unresponsive about an hour later. He was subsequently conveyed to the San Fernando General Hospital, around 12:51 PM.  Azikeil was pronounced dead around 1:22 PM after several resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.  Police said the body bore no marks of violence and visited the home to conduct further investigations into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. An autopsy has been ordered. More on this as it becomes available.  [Source: Newsday ]