HPA on alert after Zika found in Singapore

Heath Protection Agency (HPA) has been brought on alert and started strengthening protocols after Zika Virus was discovered in the popular destination among locals, Singapore this week.

A statement issued by the HPA today said that the Zika Virus, spread by the Aedes Mosquito, also responsible for spreading Dengue Fever, has been discovered across the world but so far there is no indication of it in the Maldives.

But with the discovery of the virus in Singapore this week, they are working with the World Health Organization (WHO) on strengthening the preventive measures.

HPA said that testing facilities for Zika Virus has now been established.

While microcephaly has been are confirmed to rise in the countries with Zika Virus, HPA said that there is no increase of such cases in the Maldives.

Symptoms of Zika Virus:

• Fever

• Rash

• Joint pain

• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

• Muscle pain

Preventive measures for Zika Virus:

• Using mosquito repellant

• Controlling mosquito infestation

• Special caution to mosquito bites for children, pregnant women and the elderly