Zika Virus Infection in St Kitts and Nevis

The St Kitts and Nevis Ministry of Health has confirmed the first locally acquired cases of Zika virus infection (ZIKV). Three serum samples tested on 11 September 2016 were confirmed positive for ZIKV. These positive results are the Federation’s first confirmed cases of ZIKV in the local population.

For the purpose of advising travellers St Kitts and Nevis has been categorised as a High risk.

Advice to Travellers

All Travellers

• Mosquito bite avoidance is strongly recommended.
• Advised to seek travel advice from a healthcare provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• Strongly advised to obtain adequate travel insurance – pregnant women should check with their travel insurance company that they are covered under the policy.
• Take measures to avoid sexual transmission of ZIKV

Pregnant Women

Until the link between ZIKV and adverse pregnancy outcomes has been fully clarified pregnant women should:

• Postpone non-essential travel to High risk country/territory/area.
• Pregnant women should be helped to understand the risks in order to make a fully informed decision.

They should be:

• Reminded that malaria and other travel related hazards may pose a risk during pregnancy.
• Advised to use condoms to prevent sexual transmission of ZIKV during travel and throughout the pregnancy.
• On return, early obstetric review is recommended, even if well.

Women of Child Bearing Age

Use contraception and condoms during travel and for 8 weeks afterwards to avoid the risk of ZIKV in an unplanned pregnancy and prevent sexual transmission.

Specific recommendations for other travellers

Including women at risk of becoming pregnant, planning pregnancy, and their male partners. Further information and more detailed advice can be found on the TRAVAX ZIKV Infection page

Further Resources

• Post travel diagnosis and testing information.