Flu on the Rise in Belize

Belize has seen a rise in flu cases, according to Dr Melissa Diaz‑Musa, Director of Public Health and Wellness.

“Yes, over in January we saw an increase in the H2N3, which is a subtype of the influenza virus,” she said, noting that this is the same strain spreading in parts of the United States and Canada.

She encouraged the public to take advantage of vaccines available at all health facilities and noted that recent reports show flu cases have now stabilised following January’s rise.

Dr Diaz‑Musa also talked about routine vaccinations, which fell sharply after the COVID‑19 pandemic. “For example, HPV vaccine coverage dropped to about 38 percent initially after COVID,” she said. The HPV vaccine protects against the human papillomavirus, which is linked to more than 90% of cervical cancer cases.

Coverage has since improved. “Our reports show that for 2025 we’re at 76%, which is wonderful for us and really helps us move toward the goal of eliminating cervical cancer in our country,” Dr Diaz‑Musa said.