BELMOPAN, Belize (CMC)–Belize on Tuesday reported two new cases of malaria, but said that they are considered “imported as the infection was acquired outside of Belize”.

The country’s Ministry of Health and Wellness said the two new cases were confirmed in Crique Sarco Village, Toledo district and that “although these cases were acquired outside of Belize, they highlight the continued risk of malaria transmission in neighbouring countries and the potential for reintroduction through travel”.

It said that travelers to neighbouring countries, particularly to rural, forested, or border areas, are encouraged to take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites.

“Belize remains a malaria-free country, a status granted by the World Health Organization in June 2023. The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to maintain heightened surveillance and response measures to prevent the re-establishment of malaria transmission,” it added.

The authorities said symptoms generally appear seven to 30 days after infection and that anyone experiencing fever or flu-like symptoms during or after travel should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of their recent travel history.

“Free testing and treatment are available at all public health facilities, as well as through community health workers and malaria voluntary collaborators,” the ministry said, warning also that in light of the regional advisory on Chikungunya disease in South America and Cuba, Belize currently maintains laboratory capacity to test for Chikungunya and Zika.

The authorities said that no local transmission of Chikungunya has been detected in Belize since 2016, and Zika virus transmission has not been detected since 2017.

“The Ministry of Health and Wellness encourages the public to continue practising mosquito bite prevention measures and to cooperate with health authorities to safeguard the country’s public health and preserve Belize’s malaria-free status,” it added.