Visitor Dies After Imported Malaria Infection in Antigua and Barbuda

A visiting traveller who recently arrived in Antigua and Barbuda from a malaria-endemic country has died after contracting the mosquito-borne illness, health authorities confirmed Friday.

Minister of Health Michael Joseph disclosed the development during a national health briefing, where officials also revealed that two imported malaria cases have been identified in recent days.

According to the Ministry of Health, the deceased male visitor became critically ill shortly after entering the country and was rushed to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre for treatment.

Medical personnel reportedly battled to stabilize the patient over several days, but his condition worsened and he later died while hospitalized.

Authorities said the traveller had spent only about five days in Antigua and Barbuda and is believed to have either arrived with symptoms already developing or became ill almost immediately after arrival.

Health officials stressed that the infection was not contracted locally and there is currently no evidence of community spread or local transmission within Antigua and Barbuda.

A second imported case involving another male traveller was also confirmed. Officials said that individual received treatment after becoming sick and has since departed the country.

Minister Joseph expressed condolences to the family of the deceased while assuring the public that the country’s surveillance and mosquito-control systems have been intensified out of caution.

Public health teams have reportedly increased monitoring operations in several areas as authorities work to prevent any possible spread.