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Multiplexed Isothermal Amplification Based Diagnostic Platform to Detect Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue 1
Published on: March 13, 2018
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Chikungunya virus outbreak in Sint Maarten, 2013-2014
Maria Henry1, Lorraine Francis2, Virginia Asin1
1General Health Care Section, Department of Collective Prevention Services, Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.
Summary
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) caused an outbreak in Sint Maarten from 2013-2014, with 658 reported cases. Public health collaboration between French and Dutch sides implemented control measures to manage the vector-borne epidemic.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne illness.
- The first autochthonous transmission of CHIKV in the Americas was reported in Saint-Martin.
- Sint Maarten experienced a significant CHIKV outbreak between December 2013 and December 2014.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiological characteristics of the CHIKV outbreak in Sint Maarten.
- To evaluate the collaborative prevention and control efforts between the French and Dutch sides of the island.
- To provide insights for managing future vector-borne epidemics.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of reported CHIKV cases in Sint Maarten.
- Data collection on demographics, symptoms (fever, arthralgia), and laboratory confirmation.
- Review of implemented public health interventions and cross-border collaboration.
Main Results:
- A total of 658 cases were reported in Sint Maarten, with an attack rate of 1.76%.
- Fever and arthralgia were the most common symptoms, affecting 71% and 69% of cases, respectively.
- Laboratory-confirmed cases (390) were predominantly female (61%) with a mean age of 42.
Conclusions:
- The CHIKV outbreak in Sint Maarten highlighted the rapid spread of vector-borne diseases.
- Effective cross-border collaboration and public health interventions were crucial for disease control.
- Understanding CHIKV epidemiology is vital for preparedness and response in endemic and epidemic regions.
