Chikungunya: Carribean Isle of Saint Martin

The World Health Organization has been notified of two locally acquired and laboratory confirmed cases of chikungunya in Saint Martin.  These mark the first cases of local transmission of the virus in the region.

As of December 10, 2013, there have been two confirmed cases, four probably and 20 suspected cases of chikungynya in the French part of the Carribean isle of Saint Martin.

Chikungunya is a viral disease spread to humans by the bit of an infected mosquito; symptom onset appears between 4-7 days after infected bite.  The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends travelers use  insect precautions when travelling to Saint Martin and Sint Maarten.  There is no vaccine to protect against chikungunya.

For further information please see our page on chikungunya and seek travel health advice a recommended 4-6 weeks prior to travel.