Increase In Respiratory Illnesses Cases

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MHW) continues to update on the status of cases of fever and respiratory illness among persons five years and older.

Following two weeks of decline, the number of cases increased above the alert level during the week ending August 15, 2026.

Of the nasopharyngeal swab tests that were positive during that week, the majority were COVID-19, followed by Influenza B and then Rhinovirus. These levels were higher than were detected during the previous week.

Reports from the Emergency Department of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and private medical practitioners also support the recent increase.

Irrespective of the cause of the respiratory illness, the Ministry is encouraging members of the public to practise good respiratory hygiene to help reduce the spread of infection. Persons at higher risk of severe illness include those over the age of 65, pregnant women and those with chronic diseases.

If you are ill, you are advised to:

• Wear a mask appropriately if you are coughing or sneezing, particularly when around others.
• Change your mask when it becomes damp, soiled or after prolonged use.
• Avoid close contact with vulnerable persons while experiencing respiratory symptoms.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of the tissue immediately.
• If a tissue is unavailable, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Wash or sanitise your hands after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or disposing of tissues.
• Seek medical attention if you are severely ill.

For persons at higher risk of severe illness:

• Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated settings.
• Practise good hand hygiene, especially before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Take appropriate precautions when respiratory illnesses are circulating in the community.

The Ministry reminds the public that these simple measures can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses and protect persons who are most vulnerable to severe disease.

Ministry of Health and Wellness

Author: Government of Barbados

Published: August 26, 2026