Fourth Case Of Zika Virus Confirmed in the Federation

(ZIZ News) — The Ministry of Health on Nevis has confirmed the first laboratory tested case of the Zika virus on the island.

According to a statement from the Ministry, the serum sample was sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) from the Alexandra Hospital in late August for testing and returned positive for Zika.

This result is the first confirmed case for the island of Nevis.

The ministry has notified the individual of their results.

This brings to 4, the number of confirmed Zika cases within the Federation.

However, the number of suspected cases on Nevis, that is, persons showing symptoms suggestive of Zika virus disease, has risen to 57.

The Ministry of Health is urging the general public not to panic stating that Zika is a mild illness and 80 percent of persons affected don’t show any symptoms.

These can include a fever, rash, body aches and pains.

The statement urges everyone to take precautions against contracting the disease by wearing long sleeved clothing when outdoors, using mosquito repellent and, since it is also transmitted sexually, persons are urged to also use safe sexual practices.

The Health Department also plans to take steps to eradicate the virus-carrying mosquito by increasing enforcement and education; fogging and ova-trapping.

Residents are also urged to remove any containers that may catch water and provide a breeding ground for the mosquito.