The Ministry of Health has confirmed two imported malaria cases in Antigua and Barbuda, one of which resulted in the death of a visiting traveller.
Health Minister Michael Joseph, speaking at Friday's press briefing, said both individuals had recently travelled from malaria-endemic regions before entering the country. Despite the confirmed cases, the Ministry maintains that the overall risk to the general public remains low.
Officials noted that while the anopheles mosquito — the species capable of transmitting malaria — has been identified locally, surveillance data indicates its population remains limited.
As a precautionary measure, the Central Board of Health has intensified fogging, larviciding, environmental inspections and mosquito monitoring activities in communities linked to the imported cases.
Residents are being encouraged to eliminate standing water, clean drains and gutters regularly, and use mosquito repellents where necessary.
The Ministry said public health teams continue to actively monitor the situation.
