Ministry of Health & The Environment, Antigua and Barbuda

07/05/2026

(Minister of Health Conducts Introductory Visit to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre)

Newly appointed Minister within the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs, the Honourable Michael Joseph, officially commenced his ministerial duties today following his appointment on May 5, 2026, and attendance at his first Cabinet Meeting on May 6, 2026.

The Minister began the day with a strategic meeting alongside Permanent Secretary, Stacey Gregg-Paige, during which priority matters relating to the nation’s healthcare system and public health services were discussed.

As part of his first official engagement, Minister Joseph visited the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre where he met with Director, Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, and members of the hospital’s leadership team.

Discussions focused on the current needs of the institution, ongoing operational challenges, infrastructure development, administrative support systems, staffing needs, and strategies aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across the facility.

The Minister also toured key areas of the hospital, with particular focus placed on the Emergency Room Department, including the triage area. During the tour, he received updates on patient flow processes, emergency response procedures, and the systems currently in place to support patient care.

Minister Joseph also observed the software platform utilized by the institution to manage patient intake and monitoring. The system assists healthcare professionals in documenting patient arrivals, assessing medical needs, tracking treatment progress, facilitating ward placement, and coordinating discharge procedures.

Throughout the visit, the Minister engaged with healthcare workers and administrative personnel, commending staff for their continued dedication and service to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

Minister Joseph emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and efficient healthcare systems in ensuring quality patient care and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting the continued advancement of the nation’s primary healthcare institution.

07/05/2026

Public Health Inspectors from the Central Board of Health recently collaborated with their collegues from the Barbuda Public Health Department to conduct a Food Safety Training session, just in time for the upcoming Caribana festivities. The timely initiative was aimed to ensure that all food vendors are properly equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare and serve safe, wholesome food to the public during this high-traffic period.

The training emphasized the importance of proper food handling practices, personal hygiene, safe food storage, and temperature control, in keeping with established food safety standards.

Participants were also reminded of the “Five Keys to Safer Food,” which include keeping food clean, separating raw and cooked items, cooking food thoroughly, keeping food at safe temperatures, and using safe water and raw materials.

The session was highly interactive, with over 30 participants actively engaged in discussions and scenario-based learning. Vendors were given the opportunity to ask questions and clarify concerns, ensuring a better understanding of their responsibilities in protecting public health.

All food handlers must possess a valid Food Safety Badge issued by the Barbuda's Public Health Department. This badge confirms that vendors have undergone the necessary training and are authorized to operate.

As the Caribana celebrations approach, the Barbuda Public Health Department and the Barbuda County encourages all vendors to adhere strictly to food safety guidelines. Maintaining high standards not only protects consumers but also enhances the reputation and success of the event.

Remember, food safety is everyone’s business! Barbuda's Public Health Department

06/05/2026

Michael Joseph is the newly appointed Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs effective May 5, 2026.

Learn more about him including his background, experience, and areas of focus!

Hon. Michael Joseph Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment & Civil Service Affairs The Honourable Michael Joseph currently serves as Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, effective May 5, 2026. Minister Joseph brings a strong background in pub...

06/05/2026

Join CIBC Caribbean for their Hike for the Cure!!

Saturday, May 9, 2026
Starting at 5:00 a.m.

Hike- Pensioners Beach to Yeptons Estate and Fort Barrington
Meeting & ending point- Pensioners Beach
Cost-$40 (adults), $20 (kids)
Packages with shirts-$50 (adults), $30 (kids)

Package includes complimentary breakfast and a breathtaking experience.

Register at the branch or contact the following persons:
Natasha Charles: 484-5137
Khadijah James: 484-5064
Amanda Trotter: 484-5092
Santosha Lewis: 484-5062

Don't forget, support for this hike means support for our Oncology Department. Register today!

06/05/2026

Be a part of the conversation. Your Mind Matters. Your Voice Matters.

06/05/2026

Dear beneficiaries,

Please be advised of our extended pharmacy hours on:

📅Saturday 2nd May
⏰9am - 2pm
📍Nevis Street | Clare hall | Browne's Avenue
sit-and-wait, and pick-up only service

Dear beneficiaries,
Please be advised of our extended pharmacy hours on:

📅Saturday 2nd May
⏰9am - 2pm
📍Nevis Street | Clare hall | Browne's Avenue
sit-and-wait, and pick-up only service

06/05/2026

What if the answer to climate resilience, food security, and water sustainability lies beneath our feet?

The Caribbean Climate Responsive Agriculture Forum (CCRAF) in collaboration with the Allure of the Soil, is excited to invite you to a powerful and thought-provoking session:
Africa–Caribbean (Afri-Car) Connect | Part 1
🌱 Why Soil Changes Everything: Reframing Soil as the Foundation of Climate, Food and Water Systems, and Development

📅 Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
⏰ Time: 09:00–11:00 AST | 16:00–18:00 EAT
💻 Platform: Zoom

🔗 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/Afri-Car-Connect-P12026

This is not just another webinar — it’s an immersive, storytelling-driven experience connecting Africa and the Caribbean through shared challenges and solutions.

Dear CCRAF Family,
What if the answer to climate resilience, food security, and water sustainability lies beneath our feet?
The Caribbean Climate Responsive Agriculture Forum (CCRAF) in collaboration with the Allure of the Soil, is excited to invite you to a powerful and thought-provoking session:
Africa–Caribbean (Afri-Car) Connect | Part 1
🌱 Why Soil Changes Everything: Reframing Soil as the Foundation of Climate, Food and Water Systems, and Development

📅 Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
⏰ Time: 09:00–11:00 AST | 16:00–18:00 EAT
💻 Platform: Zoom
🔗 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/Afri-Car-Connect-P12026
This is not just another webinar — it’s an immersive, storytelling-driven experience connecting Africa and the Caribbean through shared challenges and solutions.

06/05/2026

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs wishes to inform the public that a number of vaccination ID cards have been found and returned to the Ministry.

If you have recently misplaced your vaccination ID card, you are encouraged to contact us to check if it has been recovered.

📞 Telephone: 727-6049

Please call to make arrangements for collection.

Let’s help reunite you with your important documents.

06/05/2026

The Honourable Michael Joseph was officially sworn in as Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs during a formal ceremony held at the American University of Antigua Conference Centre earlier today, May 5, 2026. The occasion brought together Cabinet colleagues, government officials, and invited guests, marking the beginning of a renewed commitment to national service.

During the ceremony, Minister Joseph took the required oaths and affixed his signature to the official documents, signifying his acceptance of the responsibilities entrusted to him. The proceedings reflected both the solemnity of the moment and the importance of the portfolio he now assumes.

He was sworn in alongside fellow members of Cabinet, underscoring a unified approach to governance and the continued advancement of the country’s health, environmental, and public service sectors.

06/05/2026

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs is inviting the public to take advantage of free HPV screening services being offered on select weekends throughout the month of May.

These screenings form part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to promoting early detection, prevention, and overall wellness.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can lead to serious health complications if left undetected, making regular screening an important step in safeguarding one’s health.

Members of the public are encouraged to review the accompanying flyers for specific dates, locations, and eligibility details, and to take full advantage of this free service. Prioritizing screening today can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.

05/05/2026

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs warmly welcomes the Honourable Michael Joseph on his appointment as Minister, effective May 5, 2026.

We extend our sincere congratulations and best wishes as he assumes leadership of this vital Ministry. This portfolio plays a critical role in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our nation, advancing environmental sustainability, and strengthening the public service.

We look forward to working under his guidance and vision to continue delivering high-quality healthcare, promoting national wellness, protecting our environment, and enhancing service delivery across the civil service.

Welcome, Minister Joseph. We wish you every success in this new chapter of service to our country.