Health authorities here have increased surveillance for Monkeypox after being alerted to the fact that a crew member on a flight to the island has tested positive for the virus.

However, according to the officials, the individual did not disembark from the aircraft when it arrived.

A statement issued on Monday by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs disclosed that the Epidemiology Department was alerted to the situation by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“As obtained with infectious diseases, the required contact tracing process is currently being undertaken by the contact tracing team within the Ministry of Health. All identified contacts of the case shall be contacted by the Ministry of Health and placed in quarantine and monitored over a 21-day period,” it said.

The ministry added that with the significant increase in the number of cases of Monkeypox confirmed globally in recent weeks, St Lucia has strengthened the capacity to manage individuals who are either suspect or confirmed cases.

It said the protocols that are in place for COVID-19 have been modified to allow for the management of Monkeypox.