Health
Belize Recognized in PAHO Report as Measles Resurfaces in the Americas
The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) has released its 2024 annual report, highlighting significant health progress across the Americas, with Belize recognised for its key public health achievements. At the same time, PAHO’s August 2025 update has raised concern over a resurgence of measles outbreaks now affecting ten countries in the region, including Belize.
Health
No Updates on toddler Kaleel Nah’s Cause of Death; Family Still Waiting for Answers
The sudden death of two-year-old Kaleel Nah continues to raise concerns about medical services in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The child passed away while being transported to Belize City aboard a water taxi on September 3rd. He had reportedly been ill since August 30 with fever, cough, and vomiting. According to reports, he may have died from severe dehydration.
Health
Letter to the Editor: Special Thanks for a Successful August 2 Blood Drive
The San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group wish to thank all those who came to donate blood at the blood drive held August 2 at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II. Almost 40 members of the Ambergris Caye community came to donate. At the end of the day, 18 pints of life-saving blood were generously donated.
Health
Health Officials Warn Residents to Take Precautions This Mosquito Season
With the rainy season in full swing, Ambergris Caye faces increased mosquito infestations and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), working with the Public Health team, has begun fogging operations across the island to address the issue. A weekly schedule has been organized to notify residents of fogging days in their respective areas. The strategy uses service machines to target mosquito larvae and reduce the spread of diseases such as dengue.
Health
New World Screwworm Cases Detected in Humans in Belize
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) has confirmed the first human cases of New World Screwworm infection in Belize. The first case was confirmed on August 18th, followed by a second case the next day. Both patients are from the Cayo District.
Health
MoHW Confirms First Human Case of New World Screwworm in Belize
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) informs the public that the first confirmed human case of New World Screwworm (NWS) since its re-emergence in Belize in December 2024 has been detected.
Health
Ten countries in the Americas report measles outbreaks in 2025
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is urging countries in the Americas to strengthen immunization activities, enhance disease surveillance and rapid response interventions, as measles cases continue to rise in the region. As of 8 August 2025, a total of 10,139 confirmed measles cases and 18 related deaths have been reported across ten countries, representing a 34-fold increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Health
August Blood Drive Yields 18 Pints
On Saturday, August 2nd, the San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group held a successful blood drive at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, collecting 18 pints of blood. The local blood drive group organizes regular drives to help build the supply at the national blood bank. Saturday’s event, held from 8AM to 2:30PM, saw many prospective donors making their way to the polyclinic to be screened for eligibility.
Health
PAHO/WHO partners with Belize in the New “Towards a Smoke-Free and Emission-Free Latin America” Initiative
Belize has been selected as one of four countries to participate in a landmark regional effort: “Towards a Smoke-Free and Emission-Free Latin America” Initiative, spearheaded by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW). This strategic initiative aimed to bolster national efforts to reduce the health, economic, and environmental burden of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke, while reinforcing global commitments to public health and sustainability, building on the 2020 South America smoke-free milestone.
Health
Measles Contained in Belize as Public Health Measures Prove Effective
On July 21, 2025, Belize’s health officials reported no new measles cases for more than two full incubation periods. This marks the formal end of the outbreak that began in early April and resulted in 34 confirmed cases, primarily in the Corozal and Cayo districts. The outbreak was initially linked to tourists returning from Mexico and affected only unvaccinated individuals.
Health
MoHW Introduces Rotavirus Vaccine to Belize’s National Vaccination Schedule
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) announces the introduction of the Rotavirus vaccine to Belize’s National Vaccination Schedule, a vital step in reducing preventable diarrheal illnesses in children.
The symptoms of the rotavirus infection include diarrhoea, vomiting, and severe dehydration. These symptoms can significantly impact children’s health and long-term well-being.
