Three more cases of the Zika virus have been confirmed in Guyana by the Public Health Ministry.
These cases were confirmed after samples were tested by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).
In an invited comment today, Public Health Minister Dr George Norton said that the three persons all live along the East Bank of Demerara. He further explained that two of the individuals are Cuban doctors, who reside in Guyana while the third is a woman from Timehri, EBD.
Dr Norton explained that another suspected case has been reported and as precautionary measures the individual has been quarantined until the result is returned.
Presently, the Vector Control Services Unit has been mandated to conduct fogging exercises within the East Bank community, especially Grove and Diamond communities as these areas are heavily infested by mosquitoes.
Guyana has already confirmed five cases after the virus was detected here earlier this year. The first case was an East Bank Demerara woman who had travelled to Berbice, while the other case is a teenage boy residing at Eccles, East Bank Demerara.
The Zika Virus is spread by the infected Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes that bite throughout the day and also at nights. These mosquitoes also transmit the chikungunya virus. They thrive excellently in collection of fresh water such as in open reservoirs, tyres, roof guttering, plant containers and also around the home.
Persons, who contract the virus, may not manifest any signs or symptoms. Health officials are urging individuals, especially pregnant women to use all precautionary methods to prevent themselves from the bites of these mosquitoes, since the virus has been linked to birth defects.
It is advisable to wear lightly coloured clothing that covers the entire body. Insect repellants, household insectides sprays and coils can also be used to ward off mosquitoes.
The Public Health Ministry urges persons to check with the nearest health facility, once they develop a fever or any other Zika symptoms including joint or muscle pains or headaches.
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