Protect yourself from aedes aegypti mosquito – Ministry

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is again reminding the public that everyone, not just pregnant women, should avoid being bitten by the aedes aegypti mosquito, the vector that carries Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue Fever. Everyone should use insect repellents containing DEET, and wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants.{{more}}

This reminder comes following the disclosure by the Ministry that to date, four adult male patients with Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), suspected to be related to Zika virus infection, were admitted to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

GBS affects the nervous system of the body and can result in weakness, even paralysis.

According to the release from the Ministry, one patient has recovered completely and was discharged from hospital. The other three patients remain stable and have not required breathing support. All of these patients have received the recommended immunoglobulin treatment sourced from the PAHO Zika Fund. These patients, though not having laboratory confirmation of Zika infection because they presented after the three-day window for CARPHA testing, had clinical signs and symptoms suggestive of a preceding Zika infection.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment says it continues to support and monitor the pregnant women who have tested Zika positive and those with a clinical diagnosis suggestive of having been exposed to the Zika virus.

The Ministry also urges everyone to get rid of all mosquito breeding sites in their homes, yards and workplaces, by securely covering or turning over any containers holding water, placing fine mesh over the vents of septic tanks, and clearing gutters and spouting.