There are no cases of malaria in Jamaica- Dr. Tufton
Al Edwards / Our Today
administrator
October is usually the month that sees a rise in cases of dengue infections but dengue cases have remained below the normal epidemic threshold since September 2024.
So said Minister of Health Dr Christopher Tufton while addressing the Lower House on the issue of dengue fever activity.
Responding to a question from the Member from Clarendon South West on whether the Minister had concerns about an outbreak of malaria in Jamaica, particularly from people coming into the country illegally, Dr Tufton took the time to allay fears.
“As it relates to malaria, we have a special protocol where that risk is detected. We have no record at this point that we have malaria here or where there may be a risk. The health authorities are normally very involved in that process, and they do their necessary inspections, and if there is a view that there is a possibility of malaria, then the appropriate protocols are in place.
“As of now, we do not have that risk and thank God, we will keep it that way. The public doesn’t need to be fearful,” he said in Parliament.
He had good news to report on dengue fever. Based on data from the National Surveillance Unit, dengue fever activity remained low as of the week ending October 11, 2025.
Dr Tufton revealed: “ Year to date, there have been 379 dengue cases for 2025, fewer when compared to a similar period last year when we had 1,819 cases. There were also two dengue deaths last year, and so far for 2025, two.
“While the historical dengue season is between September to January of the following year, peaking in October around epidemiology week 41 to 43, for 2025, the seasonal line has not been exceeded as of October 11. Based on epidemiological surveillance data, the 2025/2026 dengue season is either delayed in onset or the dengue season is a low activity season.”
The last few weeks have seen some heavy rains, which tend to bring out mosquitoes, but thankfully, there is no evidence of a dengue fever outbreak.
The Minister of Health added that the public education program is ongoing, and it will be intensified. The clean-up exercise is ongoing as well.
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