So, while the COVID pandemic is intensifying once again in Belize, the Ministry of Health and Wellness will soon have to navigate the public health crisis without one of its most senior personnel.
Reports have emerged that Lorna Perez, the Field Epidemiologist Surveillance Officer at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, is leaving her post soon. She has been playing a critical and central role in tracking the virus on the ground, identifying clusters in communities, families, and workplaces.
The Minister said that she has decided not to renew her contract:
Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health and Wellness
"Her contract has come to an end. It is not that she is resigning. We have been preparing for this and we have people who would be stepping in to help us cover that area. Miss Lorna will be staying on for a period of time to help make sure that there is a smooth transition. But it is not a fact that she has resign. Her contract has come to an end and although we had offered to extend her contract, she is asking for some time to take care of some personal issues."
