Belize reports two imported malaria cases, Health Ministry urges precautions

Belize on Tuesday reported two new cases of malaria but said the infections were acquired outside the country and are therefore considered imported.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness said the cases were confirmed in Crique Sarco Village in the Toledo district and stressed that “although these cases were acquired outside of Belize, they highlight the continued risk of malaria transmission in neighbouring countries and the potential for reintroduction through travel”.

Health officials are urging travelers to neighbouring countries, particularly those visiting rural, forested or border areas, to take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites.

“Belize remains a malaria-free country, a status granted by the World Health Organization in June 2023. The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to maintain heightened surveillance and response measures to prevent the re-establishment of malaria transmission,” the ministry said.

Authorities noted that symptoms generally appear seven to 30 days after infection and advised anyone experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms during or after travel to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of their recent travel history.

“Free testing and treatment are available at all public health facilities, as well as through community health workers and malaria voluntary collaborators,” the ministry said, warning also that in light of the regional advisory on Chikungunya disease in South America and Cuba, Belize currently maintains laboratory capacity to test for Chikungunya and Zika.

Officials added that no local transmission of Chikungunya has been detected in Belize since 2016 and that Zika virus transmission has not been detected since 2017.

“The Ministry of Health and Wellness encourages the public to continue practising mosquito bite prevention measures and to cooperate with health authorities to safeguard the country’s public health and preserve Belize’s malaria-free status,” it added.