Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s healthcare workers.

The Minister’s comment follows the physical assault of a nurse during what is being referred to as a road rage incident last Tuesday.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, the nurse is shown being beaten, dragged to the ground and stomped on by a man armed with what appeared to be a gun.

Robert Bell of St. Andrew is facing five charges in relation to the incident.

The situation, which has sparked national concern, resulted in several protests across the island today.

Addressing nurses and other protestors at the University Hospital of the West Indies this morning, Dr. Tufton noted that though he condemns all acts of violence, citizens should take extra care of healthcare workers.

He explained that nurses are integral to the operation of the country’s hospitals.