Analysis of the Epidemiological Situation

The Chikungunya epidemic continues to spread on the island of Saint Martin. In Martinique, the laboratory confirmation of two cases of Chikungunya indicates that the virus has been introduced onto the island. The epidemiological situation corresponds to Phase 2 of the Psage*. Enhanced surveillance and vector control measures must continue and be intensified to prevent secondary cases and the emergence of outbreaks, thereby avoiding the spread of the virus. For Saint Barthélemy, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana, the situation remains at the reinforced Phase 1 of the Chikungunya Psage, the objective of which is to prevent and/or control the establishment of a local chain of virus transmission as quickly as possible by implementing, without delay, appropriate control measures in response to any suspected, probable, or confirmed case. It should be noted that the current rainy season and the anticipated increase in travel between territories during the year-end holidays are factors that favor the spread of the virus. Consequently, efforts toward early case detection, surveillance, and vector control measures must be at their highest level to reduce the risk of an epidemic.