The Public Health Department has confirmed a case of chikungunya on Saba. The disease, transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, is similar to dengue and can spread quickly when infected individuals are bitten by mosquitoes that then pass the virus on to others.
Health authorities, in collaboration with Saba Cares and the Public Entity Vector Control, are closely monitoring the situation. Although chikungunya is not transmitted directly from person to person, an infected mosquito can easily spread it to others, especially while patients are still symptomatic.
The government is urging the community to take an active role in prevention. “Everyone can help by removing mosquito breeding sites around their homes and protecting themselves against mosquito bites,” the Public Health Department said. By working together to reduce exposure to mosquitoes, transmission risks can be significantly lowered.
Chikungunya often causes sudden fever, severe joint pain, rash, and in some cases nausea, vomiting, and headache. Anyone feeling unwell is strongly advised to contact Saba Cares at +599 416 3288.
The Public Health Department will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.