Last week, the ministry of health on Nevis was informed by the Caribbean Health Agency (CARPHA) of the first laboratory confirmed case of zika virus disease on Nevis. This is the result of a test done in late August. The patient had no recent travel history, had mild symptoms, did not require hospitalization and was well within a few days.
This brings the Federation’s total number of laboratory confirmed cases to four. However, the number of suspected cases on Nevis, that is, persons showing symptoms suggestive of zika virus disease, has risen to 57.
Symptoms suggestive of zika virus disease include an itchy rash plus two of the following – mild fever, red eye without pus, muscle aches, joint pains and joint swelling.
Residents were asked to note that four out of five persons who are infected with the zika virus do not show symptoms.
Furthermore, the vast majority of persons who have symptoms will have a mild illness and will recover quickly, in about five days. There is no medication that cures zika virus disease. Paracetamol may be used for pain relief along with rest and lots of fluids. Avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. There is no need to go to the emergency room.
According to the ministry of health, there is a general decline in cases in the region and the same trend will shortly occur in St Kitts and Nevis.
