How Trinidad’s hotels are combating infectious diseases during Carnival 2025

Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, often hailed as the “Greatest Show on Earth”, is a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and tradition that attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe. However, with large-scale events like Carnival comes the increased risk of infectious disease outbreaks. In preparation for Carnival 2025, Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) have joined forces to ensure the hospitality sector is equipped to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases. This collaboration underscores the importance of health precautions in hotels and other tourism-related facilities, making Trinidad a safer destination for both visitors and locals.

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The importance of health precautions in hotels during mass gatherings

Hotels, guesthouses, and other accommodation providers play a critical role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, especially during mass gatherings like Carnival. With a high influx of tourists, the risk of disease transmission increases significantly.

Infectious diseases such as respiratory illnesses, food and waterborne diseases, vector-borne diseases, and sexually transmitted infections can spread rapidly in crowded environments. To address these risks, TTL and CARPHA recently hosted a virtual training session focussed on the prevention and control of infectious diseases, targeting key stakeholders in the hospitality sector.

The training, which took place on February 18, 2025, was attended by approximately 150 participants, including hotel managers, food and beverage managers, housekeepers, chefs, tour operators, and transportation providers. The session aimed to enhance industry-wide preparedness and response mechanisms, ensuring that tourism entities are well-equipped to handle public health threats.

Key health precautions for hotels and tourism facilities

To minimise the risk of infectious disease outbreaks, hotels and other tourism facilities must implement robust health precautions. These measures not only protect guests and staff but also contribute to the overall reputation of Trinidad as a safe travel destination. Here are some of the key precautions discussed during the CARPHA training session:

Staff training and certification

One of the primary requirements for achieving CARPHA’s Healthier, Safer Tourism Award is ensuring that at least 10% of staff are trained in the prevention and control of infectious diseases. This training equips employees with the knowledge to identify potential health risks and take appropriate action to mitigate them.

As Mr Cornell Buckradee, Interim CEO of Tourism Trinidad Limited, emphasised, “By equipping our tourism industry professionals with the knowledge and tools to prevent and control infectious diseases, we are strengthening our resilience and safeguarding the future of our tourism sector.”

Real-time monitoring and reporting

Hotels and tourism facilities are encouraged to use CARPHA’s Tourism and Health Information System (THIS), a web-based real-time monitoring surveillance system. THIS allows facilities to report any cases of illnesses promptly, enabling a swift response to potential outbreaks. Facilities can register for THIS at this.carpha.org and use the system to track and report health incidents.

Enhanced hygiene practices

Maintaining high standards of hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces, proper handwashing protocols, and the availability of hand sanitisers in common areas. Housekeeping staff play a vital role in ensuring that guest rooms and public spaces are kept clean and sanitary.

Food and beverage safety

Food and waterborne diseases are a significant concern during mass gatherings. Hotels and restaurants must adhere to strict food safety guidelines, including proper food storage, handling, and preparation. Chefs and food service staff should be trained in food safety practices to prevent contamination and ensure the health of guests.

Vector control measures

Vector-borne diseases, such as dengue and Zika, are a concern in tropical regions like Trinidad. Hotels should implement vector control measures, such as eliminating standing water, using insect repellents, and ensuring that windows and doors are fitted with screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Respiratory disease prevention

Respiratory diseases, including influenza and COVID-19, can spread easily in crowded environments. Hotels should encourage guests and staff to practise good respiratory hygiene, such as covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks in crowded areas, and maintaining physical distancing where possible.

Vaccination and health screenings

Encouraging vaccination among staff and guests can help prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases. Hotels may also consider implementing health screenings for guests upon check-in to identify potential health risks early.

The role of CARPHA in promoting healthier, safer tourism

CARPHA has been at the forefront of efforts to prevent and control infectious diseases in the Caribbean region. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, CARPHA has been conducting training sessions to enhance the preparedness of tourism stakeholders. While COVID-19 is no longer seen as a significant threat, the agency recognises the importance of staying vigilant against new and emerging health risks.

Building a resilient tourism sector

The collaboration between TTL and CARPHA is a testament to Trinidad’s commitment to maintaining its status as a premier and safe travel destination. By prioritising health precautions in hotels and other tourism facilities, Trinidad is not only protecting the health and safety of its visitors but also building a more resilient tourism sector.

As Mr Buckradee noted, “As we prepare to welcome thousands of visitors for Carnival 2025, ensuring the health and safety of both our guests and tourism stakeholders remains a top priority for Tourism Trinidad. This collaboration with CARPHA underscores our commitment to maintaining Trinidad as a premier and safe travel destination. By equipping our tourism industry professionals with the knowledge and tools to prevent and control infectious diseases, we are strengthening our resilience and safeguarding the future of our tourism sector.”

Radisson Hotel Trinidad

Upscale family-friendly resort near Brian Lara Promenade Located close to Holy Trinity Cathedral and Queen’s Park Savanah, Radisson Hotel Trinidad provides a poolside bar, a terrace, and a coffee shop/cafe. At the two on-site restaurants, enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and international cuisine. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi. Additional perks include: An outdoor pool with pool umbrellas Free self parking Buffet breakfast (surcharge), express check-out, and a computer station Meeting rooms, a porter/bellhop, and a gift shop Guest reviews say great things about the helpful staff Room features All 243 rooms have comforts such as 24-hour room service and laptop-friendly workspaces, as well as perks like free WiFi and air conditioning. Other amenities include: Changing tables, highchairs, and free infant beds Bathrooms with shower/tub combinations and free toiletries HDTVs with premium channels Wardrobes/closets, coffee/tea makers, and daily housekeeping

A healthier, safer Carnival experience

As Trinidad prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for Carnival 2025, the focus on health precautions in hotels and tourism facilities has never been more critical. By implementing robust measures to prevent and control infectious diseases, the hospitality sector can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From staff training and real-time monitoring to enhanced hygiene practices and vector control, these precautions are essential for safeguarding public health during mass gatherings.

For more information on how hotels and tourism facilities can protect against infectious diseases, visit CARPHA’s Tourism and Health Information System or contact Tourism Trinidad Limited at info@visittrinidad.co.tt. Together, we can make Trinidad a healthier, safer destination.

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