St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew has confirmed that he suffered a stroke and is now undergoing rehabilitation in Florida.

Drew made the disclosure in an address to the nation from Florida, where he is receiving further medical treatment.

The prime minister said an analysis of his test results confirmed that he had suffered a stroke caused by a dissection of the vertebral artery, one of the arteries at the back of the brain.

“This stroke was a dissection of one of the arteries in the back of my brain called the vertebral artery,” Drew said.

Despite the stroke, Drew said his physical and cognitive functions have remained intact and that he is able to move all his limbs, speak clearly and maintain his coordination and mental faculties.

The prime minister was hospitalised in St Kitts on August 30 after experiencing what was initially described as mild discomfort, nausea and a headache.

Following advice from his medical team at the Joseph N. France General Hospital in St Kitts and doctors in Martinique, Drew travelled to Florida for further treatment.

He has since been discharged from hospital in Florida and is undergoing rehabilitation.

“At this point in time, I can say both mentally and psychologically and also physically, I’m doing much better than my ailment will suggest,” he said, thanking God and those who had prayed for his recovery.

Drew also sought to reassure citizens that the government has continued to function during his absence.

While hospitalised, he said he met with the full Cabinet and outlined how his responsibilities would be delegated before travelling to Florida for further treatment.

Deputy Prime Minister Geoffrey Hanley has been serving as acting prime minister, while other Cabinet ministers have continued to oversee government business.

Drew described the transition as “extremely smooth” and said the government has continued to function “extremely well”.

“This administration is mature, it is competent, and it takes no chances,” he said.