Zika No Longer a Concern for Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is celebrating the news that the Zika virus has been interrupted on Saint Lucia. That means scientists have determined the virus is no longer present and travellers, including pregnant women, can visit the destination with no known risk of getting Zika from mosquitoes. 

 The announcement came from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) which said the last reported case of the Zika virus disease on Saint Lucia was in February 2017 – 19 months ago. 

The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Saint Lucia noted in a statement: “In the case of Zika virus disease, the country’s last case was diagnosed greater than 1 year ago, in spite of continuous surveillance and testing for this disease. Given that Zika virus disease has not been detected in over a year in many Caribbean countries, the Caribbean Public Health Agency has indicated that Zika virus transmission has been interrupted in the Caribbean and that risk of transmission is very low.”

Acting CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, Tiffany Howard said this development will have a very positive impact on Saint Lucia’s tourism product. “Visitors, who were concerned about travelling to Saint Lucia because of Zika, now have the assurance that Saint Lucia has managed the situation effectively. Therefore, there is no need for worry about visiting the island. And what better time to come than now, when we have so many exciting things to do, see and experience on our inspiring destination.”

Some visitors from the island’s major source markets had put off trips to the destination due to concerns about the Zika virus, especially couples who were thinking about getting pregnant. However, with the announcement by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, travellers can now rethink their decision to stay away and experience Saint Lucia – renowned as one of the world’s most romantic and attractive destinations.

The Department of Health and Wellness has implemented several strategies to reduce the impact of Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs) and properties on the island continue to be pro-active in reducing the presence of mosquitos so their guests can enjoy a wonderful stay.

For more information on the Zika virus contact the office of the Chief Medical Officer at (758) 468-5309. To learn more about Saint Lucia, visit www.stlucia.org.

For more information about the island of Saint Lucia, call 1-800-869-0377, or visit http://stlucia.org/.

About Saint Lucia

One of the Windward Islands of the West Indies’ Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia (pronounced Saint LOO-sha) is nestled halfway down the Eastern Caribbean archipelago. The “Helen of the West Indies,” Saint Lucia is known for its natural beauty and diverse attractions, including the signature Piton Mountains – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a tropical rainforest and one of the world’s few drive-in volcanoes.

Culturally rich offerings include the bustling marketplace in the capital of Castries, quaint fishing villages along the coastline, and the annual Soleil Saint Lucia Summer Festival. Saint Lucia’s wide range of accommodations includes world-class five-star resorts, all-inclusive resorts, intimate inns and value-oriented properties. Saint Lucia is also home to world-class cruise and yachting facilities. The island is continually recognized as one of the leading Wedding and Honeymoon destinations worldwide.