As the Zika virus continues to spread thoughout the region, as of Monday, there are no reported or confirmed cases of Zika virus in the Cayman Islands. Noting that there are now 47 countries reporting active Zika transmission, Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr Samuel Williams-Rodriguez urged the public to take “an abundance of caution” to prevent being bitten by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Precautionary measures include reducing or eliminating contact between mosquitoes and people, and reducing the breeding of mosquitoes by removing breeding sites, using insect repellents containing DEET, as well as using of screens, closing doors and windows and wearing long clothing.
While the Zika Virus is mainly transmitted through Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, other modes of transmission in particular sexual transmission have been documented. Though the numbers are limited at this stage there is strong epidemiological evidence of sexual transmission.
“I encourage all men and women returning from where local transmission of Zika virus is known to occur in adopting safer sexual practices or consider abstinence for at least four weeks after return,” Dr Williams said. “This is especially true for women who are pregnant. As more information becomes available in respect of Zika virus and sexual transmission, I will endeavour to keep the public informed.”
Meanwhile, the Mosquito Research Control Unit is continuing its work on reducing the population of Aedes aegypti.
MRCU Director Dr William Petrie said, “We are encouraging members of the public to remain vigilant in continuing to check their yards twice per week to remove containers and potential breeding sites of the mosquito. While we may not be experiencing any cases of Zika, we do not want to become complacent.” (CNS)
