The Ministry of Health is currently investigating a cluster of Malaria cases in South Trinidad.

In a statement, it says five cases have been confirmed, including the primary source.

These are the first five confirmed cases of malaria in the country for the year thus far.

According to the Ministry, T&T is not endemic for Malaria, and as such, most cases confirmed each year are imported and/or introduced.

Over the period 2015 to 2024, it says there have been 153 confirmed cases, which is an average of 15 cases per year.

The Ministry says the first case was identified on March 27th, with officials subsequently undertaking spraying to kill mosquitoes at the homes of the identified cases, and those in at least a one-mile radius.

Early symptoms of Malaria include fever, chills, headaches and fatigue, which may start within 10-15 days of being bitten by an infected female Anopheles mosquito. Persons experiencing any of these symptoms should visit their nearest health facility.

The following high-risk groups, e.g., persons living in and around forested areas, farmers, hunters, members of the protective services who visits these areas, hikers and environmentalists, are advised to take the necessary precautions:

● Wear long sleeved, loose-fitting and light coloured clothing when possible,

● Use mosquito nets when sleeping,

● Use insect repellents, coils and vaporisers, where applicable.

The Ministry of Health will continue to keep the public updated as necessary.