Usamate Assures: No Zika Outbreak
Public urged to adhere to the health tips issued by the ministry
There is no outbreak of Zika here, says Minister for Health and Medical Services, Jone Usamate. This reassurance follows reports thgat there are 10 confirmed cases of the virus in the Western and Central divisions. Despite the confirmation Mr Usamate said: “I must commend our team that had put together a Zika action plan earlier this year which has allowed for such timely preparedness and response.” Mr Usamate also confirmed that his ministry was investigating zika cases and a rapid survey of mosquito density within the case areas was carried out. Health Permanent Secretary Dr Meciusela Tuicakau said: “It is likely that it has been brought in to the country.” Zika virus disease is caused by a virus transmitted by the aedes mosquito, the same species which spreads dengue and chikungunya. Zika virus usually causes mild illness; with symptoms appearing a few days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. Most people with Zika virus disease will get a slight fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, and feel tired. The symptoms usually subside within one to two weeks. The public are urged to clean their compounds and adhere to the health tips issued by the ministry to avoid any further increase in the number of cases reported. “We need to increase our level of sanitation and hygiene and all stakeholders must come on board to destroy mosquito breeding places,” Dr Tuicakau said.