ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands – The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging residents to take proactive measures to protect medications, insulin, medical devices, and other essential health supplies as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season continues.
Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services, Mrs. Gracia Wheatley-Smith, said preparation should begin well before a storm threatens the Territory, particularly for persons managing chronic medical conditions.
Mrs. Wheatley-Smith advised residents living with hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and other long-term illnesses to maintain at least a one-month supply of prescription medications throughout the hurricane season to avoid disruptions in treatment.
She also encouraged individuals to keep an updated list of all medications, including names and dosages, and to ensure medicines are dispensed and stored in secure containers rather than plastic bags.
According to the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services, medications kept in their original packaging should be placed in zip-lock plastic bags as an added layer of protection against floodwaters. Residents are also advised to store medications in areas of the home that are least likely to flood and to include medications and medical supplies in their emergency preparedness kits.
Special precautions should be taken for insulin and other temperature-sensitive medications. While most insulin products can remain unrefrigerated at temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C) for up to 28 days, they should be protected from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Parents and caregivers of children with asthma are being encouraged to ensure they have a full or new asthma inhaler available before a storm approaches. They are also advised to inspect spacers and replace any that are damaged.
The Ministry further reminded residents that, in the event of an evacuation, medications, medical supplies, and medical records should be taken along and stored in waterproof containers to prevent damage or loss.
Persons who rely on oxygen therapy are urged to use battery-powered flashlights instead of gas-powered lamps or torches and to keep electrical equipment dry and protected throughout the storm.
Residents are also encouraged to continue taking medications as prescribed and to closely monitor the storage conditions of temperature-sensitive medicines during power outages.
Following a hurricane, individuals should carefully inspect medications and medical supplies for signs of water damage or contamination, particularly if their homes were affected by flooding or rain intrusion.
Mrs. Wheatley-Smith advised that medications which remain dry and uncompromised may continue to be used. However, any medications that have come into contact with floodwaters should be returned to a pharmacy for assessment and possible replacement.
She further cautioned residents against immediately discarding potentially contaminated medications, noting that pharmacists and healthcare professionals may need to identify the medications, especially if medical records have been lost or damaged.
The Ministry said taking these simple precautions can help ensure continuity of care and reduce health risks before, during, and after a hurricane.