Ministry of Health confirms its First Case of Chikungunya Virus in Country since 2021
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition informs the public of a confirmed case of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in Saint Lucia. This represents the first laboratory-confirmed chikungunya case reported in Saint Lucia since 2021. The individual was hospitalized for four days and received supportive care. He showed clinical improvement and has since been discharged home in stable condition, having made a full recovery. At this time, no additional cases have been identified in country.
Our public health teams are actively investigating and implementing measures to prevent further spread of the Chikungunya virus. Surveillance has been enhanced to detect and respond to additional cases and vector control operations are underway to reduce mosquito populations in affected areas. Healthcare providers have also been alerted to identify and report suspected cases promptly.
The Ministry of Health notes that several countries within the Caribbean and the wider Americas have recently reported increases in chikungunya activity, with confirmed outbreaks in parts of the region. Given the movement of people between territories and the presence of the Aedes mosquito locally, Saint Lucia remains at risk for additional cases.
Chikungunya virus is transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that transmit the Dengue and Zika viruses. Common symptoms include fever, severe joint pain, headache, muscle pain, and rash. While most people recover fully, joint pain may persist for weeks or months in some cases.
Testing for the chikungunya virus is available in Saint Lucia and the Ministry of Health urges anyone who may be experiencing signs and symptoms to seek care at their nearest Community Wellness Centre.
The chikungunya virus cannot be spread from one person to another and requires the presence of the mosquito. Because the vector requires water to breed, prevention focuses on eliminating breeding sites.
The public is urged to:
- Eliminate standing water around homes
- Regularly inspect even small containers that can collect water
- Avoid indiscriminate dumping of garbage
- Follow the scheduled garbage collection times
- Store water safely, especially in areas experiencing water supply interruptions
- Use mosquito nets
- Apply insect repellent to skin, clothing, or mosquito nets
- Wear long sleeves and pants when going out during peak times for mosquitoes
Even the smallest receptacle can serve as a breeding site, so frequent home inspections are essential.
Together, we can reduce the risk of further transmission.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
