Hazel F. Gloria
CEBU CITY, Sept. 7 (PIA) – Central
Visayas continues to be free from Zika virus.
Dr. Van Philip Baton, Medical Officer of Department of Health
(DOH-7) said during the Association of Government Information Officers (AGIO) –
Philippine Information Agency (PIA) 7, said that as of now, there is no
record of suspected cases with zika virus here in the region.
“Zika virus is a virus related to dengue, chikungunya and other viruses in which the source is from a mosquito
bite. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and they can also bite at
night,” said Baton.
The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, skin
rashes, joint pain, and red eyes.
“There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika but it is not deadly,”
he said.
Baton also explained that Zika is diagnosed based on a person’s
recent travel history, symptoms, and test results.
A blood or urine test can confirm a Zika infection.
Dr. Baton also said that Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman
to her fetus.
Zika virus have a high chance of fetal infection that may lead to
microcephaly that can cause certain birth defects.
DOH-7 urged the public to continuously focus on the “4S
Strategy on Dengue Awareness and Prevention” such as the following: Search and
destroy in keeping the environment clean; Self-protection measures
include wearing long sleeves or long pants; Seek early consultation
because dengue is crucial and see a doctor immediately if you show early
signs and symptoms of dengue; and Say no to indiscriminate fogging.
(rmn/hfg/AGIO-PIA7 Forum)