Spike in conjunctivitis cases
More than 600 conjunctivitis cases have been reported across five regional hospitals in the last six days, according to the Ministry of Health. This news is particularly alarming as the number of cases has doubled compared to the same period last year, likely driven by high humidity levels.
Given this worrisome increase, it's crucial to stay alert and practice preventive measures. Regular handwashing and avoiding touching your eyes with unwashed hands can help prevent the spread of infection.
Household budget survey: Rise in household income
The results of the eleventh Household Budget Survey by Statistics Mauritius were released this Thursday. The report shows a significant increase of 51.1% in the average monthly household income, rising from Rs 36,803 in 2017 to Rs 55,600 in 2023. Concurrently, average monthly expenses also saw a 45.6% increase, from Rs 28,750 to Rs 41,870 over the same period. However, after adjusting for a 31.2% inflation rate and a decrease in household size, the real increase in average household income is estimated at 22.4%, while the expense increase is 18%. It's important to note that this comprehensive survey was conducted throughout 2023 to better understand consumption dynamics in Mauritius and Rodrigues, and to update the basket of goods and services used to calculate the consumer price index.
Labor Day march
On Wednesday in Quatre Bornes, a march supporting workers' rights was organized by a coalition of local unions and the Rezistans ek Alternativ group. This event was aimed at voicing a set of demands for employees in celebration of Labor Day. Key demands included aligning wages with the new government-set minimum wage, taking into account years of service. The unions also addressed fair treatment of workers in adverse weather conditions, calling for standardized regulations for heavy rain or cyclone alerts. Finally, a constitutional reform was proposed to better ensure the protection of economic, social, and cultural rights in the country.
