January 22, 2016 -- Residents, citizens and visitors are advised that health authorities in the Federation are closely monitoring the Zika virus situation. This is in conjunction with all states and territories in the Caribbean and North, Central and South America, plus regional health agencies, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
There are no suspected or lab-confirmed cases of Zika in the Federation at this time.
Symptoms of Zika include fever, “red eye”, aches and pains, and swelling of the legs which resolve in less than one week. Up to 80% of persons who have Zika do not show symptoms. There is no medication cure or vaccine. Home treatment includes paracetamol, vegetables, fruits, fluids, and rest.
There are reports suggesting a link between Zika infection during pregnancy and an increased number of stillbirths and infants with birth defects, notably microcephaly or small brain. These reports are being investigated to identify a cause.
Out of an abundance of caution, all pregnant females and all females contemplating pregnancy are asked to note the reports of a possible link between Zika and pregnancy complications.
Females who are already pregnant should continue having pregnancies monitored and to take all of known measures to prevent being bitten by the Aedes Egypti mosquito.
Expert pregnancy monitoring is provided free of charge in all Community Health Centers on both islands.
Ensure all window and door screens, and mosquito nets are in good working order. Before purchasing and applying mosquito repellent creams and lotions, check to see if they are safe to use during pregnancy.
The Aedes Egypti mosquito also transmits Dengue and Chikungunya. It is easily recognized by black and white strips on its body and legs. The female mosquito breeds in any container that holds a drop or more of water. Such containers are found inside and around homes. They include flower pots, cooking pots, tyres, Styrofoam containers, plastic bottles, bottle caps, coconut shells, water storage drums, etc.
The Environmental Health Departments on both islands will continue education and mosquito eradication measures. However, to stop Zika requires the full and sustained cooperation of every resident who must actively search for and destroy Aedes Egypti mosquito breeding sites inside and around their homes.
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