A potentially serious resurgence of the measles virus, which had not been confirmed on the island since 1990, was stopped in its tracks under the leadership of a community health nurse who is the latest recipient of the Public Service Excellence Award.

Sylvia Robinson was commended for her role in a containment that was hailed by David Kendell, the director of health, as “nothing short of heroic”.

He added: “The economic and social disruption that could have resulted from an uncontrolled outbreak cannot be understated.”

Ms Robinson, operating within the Office of the Chief Medical Officer’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, led a team of reassigned public health nurses, navigating case management and contact-tracing for an array of close contacts.

Her work included assessing infection risk, daily monitoring of symptoms and delivering health education over the 21-day incubation period of the virus, which contributed to successfully preventing further transmission.

The island recorded two cases of the highly contagious airborne disease in November.

The Government said Ms Robinson’s contributions were especially noteworthy given her retirement at the end of December — concluding a 36-year nursing career, with 26 years dedicated to the Ministry of Health.

She was said to be instrumental in safeguarding the island’s most vulnerable populations.

This included children under 5, pregnant women and the immunocompromised.

The job had an international reach, since Bermuda's efforts to stop the spread of infectious diseases are reported to international health organisations such as the UK Health Security Agency and the Pan American Health Organisation.

Shaun Ramroop, the Chief Medical Officer, said: “Sylvia has been the face of health protection efforts surrounding infectious diseases, consistently going above and beyond the call of duty to uphold best practices and advocate for patients.

“Her swift action, especially in a post-pandemic context, demonstrated exceptional ability to navigate complex challenges, mobilise resources effectively, and prioritise the health and safety of Bermuda’s community.”

On Friday, David Burt, the Premier, thanked her for her service.

“The recent outbreak of measles was very concerning for our community, and due to Ms Robinson’s incredible work, we were able to contain it,” he said.

“I am grateful for her efforts and am proud to recognise her for her efforts today.”

Cherie Whitter, the Head of the Public Service, said Ms Robinson’s “contributions in December 2024 represent the kind of excellence in public service that deserves commendation” and wished her the best in “her well-deserved retirement”.

The PSEA recognises a group or individual in the Public Service who made significant achievements in service delivery during the previous 60 days.