Update on Chikungunya Case and Seasonal Illnesses

Public Entity Saba is providing an update regarding the Chikungunya case reported in November. The original reported case has now been confirmed as a false positive following additional laboratory testing in the Netherlands. False positives can occur in infectious disease diagnostics, and we appreciate the cooperation of all parties involved in verifying the results.

At this time, Saba has no active confirmed cases of Chikungunya.

With the correction to the earlier report, we also want to recognize that the island is currently experiencing an increase in seasonal illnesses. This rise in cold and flu cases is expected during this time of year, but it is still important for the community to take simple preventive steps to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

Residents are encouraged to:
• Stay home when sick
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Keep shared surfaces clean
• Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve

Public Health will continue to monitor disease activity and will share updates when necessary. The community’s cooperation helps protect those most vulnerable to seasonal illnesses.

For questions, please contact the Public Health Department publichealth@sabagov.nl.