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Jamaica braces for inclement weather – public hospitals in emergency mode

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KINGSTON, Jamaica, Oct. 23, CMC – Public hospitals islandwide have entered emergency mode which means that in-patient services and elective surgeries have now been suspended.

This was announced by Health Minister  Dr Christopher Tufton who on Thursday afternoon  advised relatives of patients admitted for non-critical reasons to pick them up as soon as possible.

Speaking  at a press briefing to update the country on plans being rolled out by the Government in response to the impending threat from Tropical Storm Melissa, Tufton said the hospitals have to reserve bed spaces in case they are needed for emergencies.

Tufton said the emergency centre is now fully activated and consultations have been held with the regional health authorities.

At the same time, 702 health personnel are on standby across parishes for emergency responses.

CMC/jm/kb/2025