Understanding the Recent Surge of Influenza Cases

The Caribbean is currently experiencing a significant surge in influenza (flu) cases, with more people seeking care for flu-like symptoms across clinics and emergency departments. While influenza is a familiar seasonal illness, the scale and intensity of this increase have placed added strain on health services and raised concern among healthcare professionals.

When did the surge begin?

The increase in influenza activity began toward the end of last year and has continued into the early weeks of the new year. Healthcare facilities have reported steadily rising visits for respiratory symptoms, indicating flu levels above the usual seasonal baseline.

Severity and outcomes

Most people with influenza recover fully with rest and supportive care. However, this season has seen:

• Moderate to severe illness in some patients

• Higher risk of complications among older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems

• A small number of deaths associated with severe respiratory illness, underscoring that influenza should never be considered “just a bad cold.”

Seeking care early plays a critical role in preventing complications.

Why is there a surge?

Several factors are likely contributing to the current increase:

1. Seasonal transmission Influenza spreads more efficiently at certain times of the year.

2. High tourist arrivalsBarbados has experienced strong tourism numbers, increasing population movement, and close contact in airports, hotels, events, and public spaces, conditions that favour viral spread.

3. Reduced population immunity Lower flu vaccination uptake in recent years has reduced community-level protection.

4. Crowded environments Schools, workplaces, public transport, and social gatherings make transmission easier.

Multiple viruses are circulating at once

 Influenza spreading alongside RSV and COVID-19 has increased both exposure risk and healthcare demand.

How medical services are coping

Healthcare providers across the island have responded by:

• Adjusting clinic workflows to manage increased patient volumes

• Prioritising high-risk and more severe cases

• Strengthening infection prevention and control measures

• Continuing to promote vaccination, early assessment, and appropriate treatment

Despite the pressure, healthcare teams remain committed to delivering safe, timely, and compassionate care.

What the public can do to stay safe

Everyone can help reduce the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses by:

• Getting the flu vaccine if you haven’t already

• Washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer

• Covering coughs and sneezes and avoiding touching your face

• Staying home when unwell to protect others

• Wearing a mask if you have symptoms and must be around people

• Taking extra precautions to protect vulnerable family members, especially seniors and young children

What to do if you experience symptoms

Seek medical advice promptly if you experience:

• Fever, chills, headache, or body aches

• Persistent cough, sore throat, or congestion

• Extreme fatigue or weakness

• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort

• Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement

Urgent medical care is especially important for anyone in a high-risk group or experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or signs of dehydration.

A final word from LiveWell

Influenza is a serious but preventable and manageable illness. Staying informed, taking preventive measures, and seeking care early can make a meaningful difference for you and your community.

If you or a loved one needs guidance, assessment, or ongoing care, LiveWell is here to support you every step of the way.

Your health. Your care. Your community.