PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is advising the public—particularly adults, parents, and guardians—to be mindful of the risks associated with exposure to loud music during Carnival 2026 activities.

CPS emphasizes that prolonged exposure to high noise levels can cause hearing damage, especially in young children, and calls on families to take the necessary precautions to protect their hearing.

With Carnival festivities well underway, several major events featuring music trucks and amplified sound systems are scheduled in the coming weeks.
These include the Junior Carnival Parade on Sunday, April 19, the Jouvert Morning Jump-Up on Monday, April 27, the Grand Carnival Parade on Thursday, April 30, and the Labour Day Lighted Parade on Friday, May 1.

CPS is encouraging the public to be cautious when attending these events, particularly by avoiding standing in close proximity to speakers on sound trucks.

Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), and higher decibel levels indicate louder and more potentially harmful sounds. Exposure to excessive noise, even for short periods, can have adverse effects on hearing.

In children, environmental noise exposure has also been linked to stress responses, reduced well-being, and increased levels of hormones such as adrenaline. Repeated or prolonged exposure to loud sounds can result in permanent and irreversible hearing damage.

Hearing loss can range from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears, making it difficult to hear normal conversation or loud sounds. CPS is therefore urging parents and guardians to closely monitor their children during Carnival activities and ensure they are not positioned near high-volume sound sources.

To reduce the risk of hearing damage, CPS recommends the use of child-sized hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs during noisy events.

Parents are also encouraged to limit the amount of time children spend in high-noise environments and to teach them to move away from loud sound sources when possible. Additionally, children who frequently participate in noisy activities should have their hearing checked regularly.

CPS encourages the community to take a proactive approach to hearing health during the festive season. By taking simple preventive measures, families can enjoy Carnival 2026 while protecting the well-being of their children.

For more information, contact CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322, or 542-1570, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG  (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is calling on the community to take a proactive approach to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) as part of its annual health observances for the month of April.

In collaboration with the Sint Maarten AIDS Foundation and JCI SXM A.C.T.I.O.N., CPS is reinforcing safe health messages, particularly during the Carnival season.

CPS emphasizes that STIs are a real and present public health concern that can affect anyone. These infections do not discriminate, making it essential for individuals to stay informed and make responsible decisions regarding their sexual health. Education and awareness are key tools in preventing the spread of STIs within the community. Persons having multiple partners and not using condoms are putting themselves and their partners at risk.

Sexually Transmitted Infections are primarily spread through person-to-person sexual contact, especially during unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Individuals who may have been exposed to an STI, or who have engaged in unprotected sex with a partner whose status is unknown, are strongly encouraged to consult their general practitioner and get tested.

There are more than 30 different sexually transmitted bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Some of the most common infections include gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, genital warts, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis B. If left untreated, some STIs can lead to serious long-term health complications.

Practicing safer sex is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infection. CPS advises the consistent and correct use of condoms—both male and female—as a key preventive measure. Making informed choices and taking responsibility for one’s health and that of one’s partner are essential steps in protecting against STIs.

CPS encourages residents to seek information, get tested, and know their status. For more information on STIs, individuals can contact their general practitioner or the Sint Maarten AIDS Foundation.

The message is clear: enjoy life, stay informed, and take control of your health.

PHILIPSBURG  (DCOMM):---  Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), is urging residents to take immediate action following the heavy rainfall experienced on Tuesday, which significantly increases the risk of mosquito breeding across the island.

Health authorities warn that the combination of rainfall, warm temperatures, and urban conditions creates an ideal environment for the Aedes aegypti mosquito to breed.

This mosquito, which is commonly found in and around homes, lays eggs in stagnant water collected in everyday items such as buckets, tires, flowerpots, and clogged drains. CPS is therefore calling on the community to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to eliminate standing water.

Dengue fever can cause symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and rash. In more severe cases, it can lead to serious complications including bleeding and organ impairment. Chikungunya, while rarely fatal, is known to cause high fever and intense joint pain that can persist for weeks or even months, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life.

Residents are advised to remain alert for increased mosquito activity following the recent rainfall. CPS emphasizes that the most effective way to prevent mosquito-borne diseases is by eliminating breeding sites.

Households are encouraged to inspect their surroundings regularly, especially after rain, and to empty or remove any containers holding water. The use of insect repellent, proper window screening, and protective clothing is also recommended to reduce exposure to mosquito bites.

CPS is calling on the Sint Maarten community to take collective responsibility in protecting public health. Simple actions taken at the household level can have a significant impact in reducing mosquito populations and preventing the spread of disease.

To report mosquito breeding concerns or to request assistance, residents can contact CPS Vector Control at +1 (721) 520-4161, 542-1222/1570, or 914. The team can also be reached via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) acknowledges that the current rain will continue to expose vulnerabilities in the island's road infrastructure, resulting in the formation of potholes and deteriorating road surfaces across various areas.
While efforts to improve road infrastructure remain a priority, repair works are weather-dependent and will commence as soon as conditions permit. The Ministry is actively working toward a more comprehensive, long-term road management plan to address these challenges in a sustainable manner.
The Ministry respectfully asks for the patience and cooperation of all road users during this period and assures the public that restoring safe and reliable road conditions remains a top priority.