The Ministry of Health and Wellness is advising the public that effective immediately, children age 12 years and younger can access free medical care at The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI).

In a statement, the Ministry said the decision comes in light of the increase in admissions being experienced at the Bustamante Hospital for Children as a result of respiratory illnesses.

It says it is therefore advising that children with any illness now be taken to The University Hospital of the West Indies where they will be treated by the medical team there.