Anguilla health sector representatives from the Ministry of Health and Social Development Lynrod Brooks, Health Planner and Ambrell Richardson, Director of Health Protection, met with officials from Section General Public Health of Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, on Friday, to discuss public health matters.
The closer cooperation in the health field came as a result of the alert issued by Anguilla health authorities last month with respect to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) after several cases were diagnosed in Anguilla.
Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health officials immediately at that time sought contact with their Anguilla colleagues with respect to gathering information about HFMD.
The meeting materialized based on an extended invitation by Sint Maarten to Anguilla to discuss and exchange information especially with respect to HFMD.
Further deliberations focused on improving skills and competencies and building partnerships as it relates to surveillance and other health programs.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever was very pleased with the connection that has been established between Anguilla and Sint Maarten public health officials, and he is looking forward to strengthening this relationship in the public health field to the benefit of the peoples of both islands.
PHOTO CUTLINE: L to R: Nirmala Vlaun, General Public Health worker; Lynrod Brooks, Anguilla Health Planner; Dr. Virginia Asin, Head of CPS; Maria Henry, Section Head General Health Care; Ambrell Richardson, Director of Health Protection.