Confirmed cases of chikungunya fever in the Caribbean

The first locally acquired cases of chikungunya in the Caribbean have been reported in Saint Martin and Sint Maarten since October 15, 2013.  Updated information now includes  confirmed cases of chikungunya fever  in Guadeloupe, Martinique and Saint-Barthelemy.   Previously reported cases occurred only from imported cases of chikungunya.

Chikungunya is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.  Symptoms are similar to Dengue fever and include fever, rash and arthritis-like pain in the joints.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that travelers use daytime and nighttime insect precautions while travelling to the Caribbean.  There is no vaccine to protect against chikungunya fever.  Travellers should seek travel health advice a minimum of 4-6 weeks prior to departure (if possible) to learn about protection methods and to ensure all other vaccines are up to date.