Health Minister Michael Joseph says the risk of malaria spreading in Antigua and Barbuda remains low despite the recent confirmation of two imported cases, including one death.

Speaking at a press briefing Thursday, Joseph stressed that health officials have found no evidence of local transmission and said surveillance indicates the mosquito responsible for spreading malaria exists only in limited numbers locally.

“The Ministry therefore advised that, while Anopheles mosquito has been identified in Antigua and Barbuda, surveillance indicates that the presence locally remains limited to small quantities,” Joseph said.

“According to the risk to the general public remains very low,” he added.

Joseph confirmed that the country recently identified two imported malaria cases involving male travelers from malaria-endemic regions. One patient recovered after treatment and later departed Antigua and Barbuda, while the second patient died after being hospitalized in severe condition at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

Health authorities activated national response protocols following the cases, including epidemiological investigations, contact tracing, vector surveillance and ongoing monitoring.

Joseph said the Central Board of Health has intensified mosquito control operations in areas linked to the cases, including environmental inspections, larviciding, targeted fogging and continued monitoring of mosquito populations.

He also urged residents to support mosquito control efforts by eliminating standing water, covering water storage containers, cleaning drains and gutters, using mosquito repellents and ensuring window and door screens remain in good condition.

The minister encouraged anyone experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms, particularly after international travel, to seek prompt medical attention.