By Navendra Seoraj
THE Zika virus continues to take its toll on Guyanese, as the Ministry of Public Health has confirmed 28 cases.During an interview with this newspaper on Wednesday, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton revealed that four of the confirmed cases are pregnant women, who are currently receiving medical attention.
Dr Norton reiterated that the ministry has plans in place to tackle the virus; however, pregnant women have been prioritised due to the effects the virus has on the foetus.
“We will not let our guards down… currently we have field workers checking for persons with relative symptoms to that of the virus…however, citizens should be on high alert by taking all the necessary precautionary measures,” said the minister.
Meanwhile, the minister also revealed that testing of the virus will only be done on pregnant women for the time being; and those who may have symptoms of the virus, will be treated with the relevant medication.
Zika is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. Signs and symptoms of the illness include fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, rashes, and sometimes swelling of the limbs. Some persons may also experience vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
There has been no direct treatment developed for the illness, but patients are treated with basic pain killers.
Precautionary measures such as the use of insect repellents, insecticide- treated nets, and wearing long-sleeved clothing are recommended. Household insecticidal sprays, coils, candles, screening of windows, doors and other openings can also aid in reducing mosquitoes in the home.
Individuals should conduct systematic searches in and around their environment for any stored or exposed bodies of water and remove these sources of mosquito breeding places to control the spread of mosquitoes.
Persons are asked to clear their environs of unnecessary materials such as tyres, punch holes in discarded containers and should properly cover containers with stored and drinking water, pour a little oil in water stored for domestic use, and change water regularly in vases, pet containers and plant saucers, since these also attract vectors.
It is also advised that individuals use only insect repellents that are registered and approved by the Pesticides & Toxic Chemicals Control Board.
