"No one, no one, can question the integrity of the public health team in the management of this public health threat," the minister declared yesterday, during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in Gordon House.

Opposition Spokesman on Health Dr Fenton Ferguson had raised concerns about the increasing number of cases in the country, indicating that the figure might have been under-reported.

Be more measured

Spencer went on the offensive, urging his opposition counterpart to "be more measured in his public utterances".

He cautioned Ferguson against making pronouncements on the matter, informing him about the protocol involved in confirming and announcing new cases.

The minister said the protocol was based on the international health standards regulations. He said the country was obliged to declare a confirmed case to the international community within 24 hours.

Spencer maintained that the ministry had no current plans to disrupt social or economic activities due to the spread of the virus, as there was no "scientific basis to do so".

Persons with chronic diseases, such as HIV/AIDS and other illnesses that break down the immune system, are being advised to seek medical attention at the first onset of flu-like symptoms.