Two Cases of Malaria Confirmed in Antigua and Barbuda as Government Strengthens Health Surveillance

Health officials in Antigua and Barbuda have confirmed two cases of malaria, prompting the Government to strengthen surveillance and public health monitoring measures across the country.

The disclosure was made during Thursday’s post-Cabinet press briefing by the Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, who said the Ministry of Health is expected to provide further details during a dedicated press conference in the coming days.

The development comes as authorities continue monitoring several international health concerns, including outbreaks of Ebola, Hantavirus and malaria in different parts of the world.

Cabinet was informed this week that the Ministry of Health has already begun enhancing operations within the Port Health Unit as part of efforts to improve screening and surveillance at Antigua and Barbuda’s ports of entry.

Under the new measures, incoming travellers will face expanded health screening procedures, including temperature checks and increased monitoring aimed at identifying possible public health risks before entry into the country.

Travellers will also be required to provide details of their travel history over the previous 21 days. Health officials say the measure is intended to help determine whether passengers may have recently travelled through countries where any of the identified diseases are currently active.

Health Minister Michael Joseph told Cabinet that preparations are also underway to ensure the Infectious Disease Centre is ready should additional cases or other health threats emerge.

Cabinet has since approved the enhanced measures and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting public health through increased preparedness and surveillance.

The Ministry of Health is expected to use Friday’s planned press briefing to provide additional information on the confirmed malaria cases and outline guidance for residents, citizens and travellers.