Health authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have officially confirmed the absence of dengue outbreaks or unusual increases in mosquito-borne illnesses across the nation. This assurance came through a detailed epidemiological briefing presented to the Cabinet by Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, with subsequent public communication handled by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant.
The comprehensive surveillance data reveals that all indicators for dengue and other arboviral diseases remain consistently within expected baseline parameters. The statistical trajectory shows a notable decline in confirmed dengue cases over recent years, with 2026 recording zero infections to date. Historical data indicates two cases in 2022, a significant spike to 106 cases in 2023, followed by a substantial reduction to 18 cases in 2024, and further decline to 11 cases in 2025.
Other mosquito-transmitted illnesses including Zika, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever have similarly maintained minimal presence. Zika virus registered only two confirmed cases in the previous year, with no infections detected in 2022, 2023, 2024, or the current year. The more severe diseases—chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever—have recorded zero laboratory-confirmed cases from 2020 through present.
Cabinet officials concluded that arboviral activity remains effectively controlled with no evidence of sustained transmission or outbreak conditions. The Ministry of Health maintains fully operational surveillance systems designed for early detection and rapid response should disease patterns shift. While current risks remain low, health officials continue advocating for routine mosquito control measures including elimination of standing water and use of personal protection equipment. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparent, evidence-based public health management and ongoing protection of citizen welfare.