Acting Chief Medical Officer gave a report to the nation on Wednesday on the Zika Virus, how it infects an individual and the resulting symptoms. Dr Wilkinson indicated that Zika symptoms include fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, conjunctivitis or red eye which may last a week.
The CMO pointed out however 80% of people infected with Zika Virus may have no symptoms, although in some cases there may be internal bleeding. Pregnant women have to be specially proactive as they may give birth to babies with small heads leading to abnormal growth and mental retardation.
The Acting CMO says there is no known case of the Zika Virus infection in SKN. But warned nationals and visitors to destroy known breeding areas of mosquitoes and to protect themselves accordingly using mosquito repellent spray.
” To date , we have no confirmed cases of Zika Virus or infection in the federation. However in light of the outbreaks in Florida and other Caribbean Islands, the Ministry of Health through environmental Health department continue to carry out the following activities to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors alike. Premises inspections to ensure that homes are free of mosquito breeding sites; responding to complaints from persons; collection of mosquito eggs for resistant testing;and the collection of adult mosquitoes in our homes and at our points of entry, some of which is being done in collaboration with Ross University,” urged Dr Wilkinson.