PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  Today, Tuesday, May 5 is World Hand Hygiene Day. The 2026 global campaign is 18 years of SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), everyone has the right to expect clean care, whether that care is administered in a field hospital, a care home or a state-of-the art operating theatre.

A large proportion of avoidable infections acquired during health care delivery could still be prevented with hand hygiene and infection prevention and control (IPC) action at the right times.

This provides a high return on investment for health systems and countries. In this 18th year of the WHO world hand hygiene day, we call on those providing and supporting health care to refresh their action on hand hygiene and IPC to ensure patient and health worker safety.

The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, says clean care is safer care; protects the most vulnerable, saves lives and helps combat bacteria resistance, and it all starts with clean hands for infection prevention and control.

CPS calls on all health and care related institutions to review and reflect on their protocols currently in place for infection prevention and control, and to adjust where necessary, if need be, to be in line with WHO standards and requirements.

The WHO says that: Health care-associated infections (HAIs) affect health systems every day and are a daily threat to patients in every health care setting, including during public health emergencies.

They contribute to the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) burden, cause immense suffering to patients, families and health workers, premature deaths and disability, higher health care costs and hamper efforts to achieve high-quality care for all.

Hand hygiene and IPC best practices are also affected by the built environment including lack of water, sanitation, waste management and hygiene (WASH), which also impact equity and dignity among both those providing and receiving care.

In 2026 IPC action including hand hygiene, is critical now more than ever.

ORANGESTAD ARUBA:--- The Ombudsman of Aruba recently announced that she will organize an information session for institutions subject to the National Ombudsman Ordinance on May 5th and 7th. The institutions have shown great interest, and both sessions were fully booked within a few days. Therefore, registration is currently closed.

During this session, the Ombudsman, Ms. Jurima Bryson, LL.M., will provide information on the National Ombudsman Ordinance, as well as the Ombudsman's mandate and role. In addition, the standards of proper conduct and the treaties serve as a framework for assessing complaints. The citizen's right to file a complaint will also be addressed, along with other relevant topics.

The Ombudsman will continue offering these sessions to institutions. In addition to regularly providing information through our online channels, the Ombudsman recognizes the added value of also having in-person moments where the Ombudsman and institutions meet.

The Ombudsman focuses not only on our institutions, but also on our citizens. Soon, the Ombudsman will visit different neighborhoods to provide services closer to home for people who wish to file a complaint.
 
Stay informed about the latest developments
The Bureau of Ombudsman Aruba keeps the community informed through the following communication channels:
- Website: www.ombudsman.aw
- Facebook: Ombudsman Aruba
- Instagram: ombudsmanaruba
- LinkedIn: Ombudsman Aruba

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season.

With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety.

Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within a 24-hour period.

Unsafe food handling poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis can spread easily when bacteria from contaminated hands, surfaces, or food is transferred to others. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the restroom, can lead to the contamination of utensils, food, and other commonly touched items.

CPS emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of illness. Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing or consuming food.

Surfaces such as kitchen counters should be cleaned regularly and disinfected using appropriate solutions. Practicing good cough etiquette and maintaining overall cleanliness are also essential preventive measures.

Food handlers and consumers are also reminded to prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring proper food storage.

Temperature control is critical—food should be kept out of the “danger zone” where bacteria can multiply rapidly. If food appears spoiled or has been exposed to improper temperatures, it should be discarded immediately.

Individuals diagnosed with gastroenteritis are advised to remain at home, follow medical guidance, and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others. CPS encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and the community.

As Carnival 2026 gets underway, CPS calls on all residents and visitors to prioritize food safety and hygiene. By taking simple preventive steps, the community can help ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable festive season for all.

For more information call CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322 and 542-1570; or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Sports within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS) is pleased to announce the upcoming King’s Games (Koningsspelen) 2026, held in honor of His Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand of the Netherlands. The event will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, across 19 elementary schools, engaging approximately 3,500 students.
The 2026 theme, “Everyone Fun” (Iedereen Plezier) emphasizes enjoyment as a key driver of physical activity and the development of lifelong healthy habits. This theme focuses on inclusivity and collective participation, encouraging not only students, but also teachers, parents, sports providers, and volunteers to contribute to making the day an energetic and festive celebration. Whether through sports participation, cheering, organizing, or supporting activities, everyone plays an important role in the success of the King’s Games.
To support the event, each participating school will receive a sports and party box containing materials designed to enhance activities and align with the theme of the day.
The King’s Games will begin with a healthy breakfast provided to all participating students in collaboration with Cake House Bakery. Following breakfast, schools and Physical Education teachers will lead a variety of fun, engaging, and physically active programs that have been carefully prepared to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Ms. Melissa Gumbs, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating:
“We are excited to host the King’s Games once again and are encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by our schools and students. Promoting physical activity and healthy habits among children is essential to their overall well-being and development, and we remain committed to creating opportunities that support these goals.”
The Department of Sports extends its sincere appreciation to all participating schools and Physical Education teachers for their dedication and commitment in organizing this event. Special thanks are also extended to Cake House Bakery for their continued partnership and generous support in providing breakfast to the students.