No dengue outbreak exists in Antigua and Barbuda, Cabinet has been advised. Instead, health officials report stable conditions nationwide. According to current data, mosquito-borne illnesses remain within normal levels. Therefore, officials say there is no cause for alarm.

Accordingly, Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph provided the update during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting. Then, Director-General of Communications Maurice Merchant shared the details at Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing. He explained that surveillance and laboratory data show no unusual disease activity. As a result, Cabinet received reassuring public health advice.

Importantly, Merchant said all dengue indicators remain within expected baseline levels. Moreover, the data show a steady decline in confirmed dengue cases over several years. For example, two cases were recorded in 2022. However, 2023 saw a temporary spike of 106 cases.

After that increase, cases dropped significantly. In 2024, health officials confirmed only 18 dengue cases. Then, in 2025, the number fell further to 11 cases. So far in 2026, no dengue cases have been recorded. Consequently, officials see no evidence of an outbreak.

Similarly, other mosquito-borne illnesses remain rare. For instance, Zika recorded only two confirmed cases last year. In contrast, no confirmed Zika cases appeared in 2022, 2023, 2024, or so far this year. Therefore, Zika activity also remains low.

Meanwhile, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever show even stronger trends. Specifically, zero laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported since 2020. Thus, overall arboviral activity remains controlled across the country.

As a result, Cabinet concluded there is no indication of sustained transmission. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Health continues active surveillance. This ensures early detection and a rapid response if disease patterns change.

Furthermore, Merchant emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency. Accordingly, officials will promptly inform the public if risks increase. At the same time, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant.

For example, the ministry continues to promote routine mosquito-control measures. These include removing standing water and using personal protection. Ultimately, officials stress prevention remains a shared responsibility.

In conclusion, Antigua and Barbuda faces no dengue outbreak at this time. Still, health authorities remain alert and prepared to act swiftly if needed.

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