Belmopan. April 6, 2020. 11:35 a.m.
The Government of Belize has been made aware of the social media post by the wife of the late Mr. Hubert Pipersburgh in which she recounts her experience while seeking care for her husband. The nation is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Pipersburgh, a beloved Belizean, both at home and abroad. The Government reiterates its deepest condolences to his wife, Ms. Maria Estella Recinos and their family as expressed last night by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow.
The Government assures the Pipersburgh and Recinos family and the public that all complaints and criticisms regarding COVID-19 in Belize are taken very seriously. Especially concerning is the experience Mr. Pipersburgh’s family recounts.
Ms. Recinos’ report and any information that can assist in ensuring that Belize’s response demonstrates respect and care for citizens are welcome and appreciated. Consequently, an investigation of the public health response and medical care given to Mr. Pipersburgh as recounted by Ms. Recinos has already begun.
Rest assured that the Ministry of Health has a team of highly trained experts and is being further strengthened by doctors and nurses, who are also experts in their own fields, and international partners. This will tremendously increase mapping, testing and diagnostic capacity. The Government has recently received more test kits, ventilators and other gear, and more are on the way.
The Government and the Ministry of Health are working around the clock to provide the best medical care and facilities for COVID-19 patients. As the Prime Minister recently expressed, “The front line of the Ministry of Health has been strengthened by the recently arrived Cuban medical brigade.” The Prime Minister also advised that a technical committee comprising non-government medical personnel, both doctors and nurses, is being formed to assist the Director of Health Services and his team to map out and guide our national response.
The public is asked to cooperate in following the guidelines and regulations put forth by the Government of Belize to reduce the impact of COVID-19 in Belize:
- practice social distancing,
- wash or sanitize hands regularly,
- stay at home unless you have an emergency, and
- observe the stipulations of the state of emergency.
All Belizeans are called upon to act responsibly and with kindness for all as the country goes through this unprecedented and difficult time together.
