PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament and Leader of the United People’s UP Party Omar E.C. Ottley has sounded the alarm over what he warns could be an impending "Quad-demic" crisis, demanding urgent action from the current Minister of Health. The warning comes amidst reports of an alarming combination of viral threats, including a dangerous new respiratory illness sweeping through China and a surge in norovirus and flu-like symptoms in Sint Maarten. Ottley sharply criticized the lack of proactive efforts from the Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), pointing out the dangerous reality that could soon unfold. "We are facing a ticking time bomb," said Ottley, emphasizing the rapidly escalating viral threats worldwide. "Despite the increasing cases of illness, the Minister has failed to address the situation with any sense of urgency, leaving our citizens vulnerable." The "Quad-demic" refers to the simultaneous emergence of four highly contagious viruses: COVID-19, influenza, norovirus, and a new respiratory virus from China resembling pneumonia. While each illness poses a serious risk, Ottley warned that their combined impact could devastate Sint Maarten's already strained healthcare system. "If we don't act now, our hospitals will be overwhelmed more than during the COVID-19 crisis. Lack of preparedness means we could face a disaster even worse than before." Ottley's concerns were amplified by reports of overcrowded hospitals in China, where the surge in respiratory illnesses is overwhelming medical facilities. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has already issued warnings, advising travellers to practice strict hygiene measures such as covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing and wearing a mask if exhibiting respiratory symptoms. Meanwhile, Countries like Curacao have already begun promoting preventative health measures to avoid a similar crisis.
In Sint Maarten, Ottley insists that the government must take swift and decisive action. "We're seeing an increase in illness across the community, yet the Minister remains silent. Why aren't we seeing public health advisories or concrete steps being taken to prepare for what's coming?" he asked. "It's irresponsible for the government to wait until hospitals are full and our healthcare staff are pushed to the brink. We need to prepare now." Ottley's call to action comes at a time when the threat of a new respiratory virus, similar to pneumonia and COVID-19, is growing, along with influenza and norovirus. "The reality is that we've seen this before with COVID-19. We cannot afford to ignore these warnings," Ottley stated. "Now is the time to act, not when it's too late." He expressed his concern that the healthcare system could be further stressed by the combined impact of these viruses, leading to a catastrophic overload. "We know how devastating a surge in patient loads can be if we don't start preparing. We must use the warnings we have now that were not clear leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic and not risk repeating the same mistakes many countries made during COVID-19. Our people and our healthcare system deserve better." Ottley is urging the current Minister of Health to take immediate steps, including securing essential medical supplies, expanding testing capabilities, and implementing clear public health guidance. "The people of Sint Maarten deserve transparency, proactive planning, and effective collaboration between the government and healthcare stakeholders," he stated. "The clock is ticking, and delays in action could cost lives. It's time for the Minister to step up and present a comprehensive plan for the Quad-demic."
"Preparedness saves lives. We can't afford to wait any longer.
