~~Adz:Left~~The general public is advised that the Ministry of Health has received information about a malaria outbreak in parts of Jamaica. The following is issued for guidance:
1. The Ministry of Health of St. Kitts and Nevis is closely monitoring the situation in conjunction with regional partners such as the Caribbean Epidemiology Center (CAREC).
2. Malaria is spread by the Anopheles species of mosquito; it is not spread by coughing, sneezing, and casual contact such as a handshake etc.
3. The malaria spreading Anopheles mosquito does not exist in St. Kitts and Nevis according to the regular surveillance reports of the Environmental Health Department.
4. Persons who have traveled from Jamaica to St. Kitts and Nevis should closely monitor their health for flu-like illness for up to 30 days and promptly report symptoms to their personal physician.
5. Persons who intend to travel to Jamaica should seek advice from their personal physician re protection against mosquito bites.
6. Mosquitoes of all types including Dengue, breed where water collects. Common mosquito breeding sites include bottles, vases, tires, coconut shells, cans, and sauce pans.
7. The most effective mosquito control is the elimination of breeding sites. Vases and flowerpots should be regularly checked and drained. Empty bottles, cans, etc should be properly disposed of so that water cannot collect in them.
8. The general public may assist in mosquito control by adopting zero tolerance for unhealthy habits such as improper dumping in forests, fields, verges and ghauts.
9. The Environmental Health Departments on both islands will continue the surveillance of communities. Such activity is stepped up during periods of excess rainfall. For further information, please contact the health center in your area.
