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The Zika virus outbreak is a concern that require immediate attention and action from all Malaysians. Zika is transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same agent that cause dengue. Dengue cases from January up to Aug 13 this year cumulatively totaled at 69,400 cases compared to 75,795 cases in the same period last year. While there is a reduction recorded, we are still far from curbing dengue despite various efforts initiated.

Continuous and increased efforts from all stakeholders are needed at an urgent pace to kill Aedes mosquitoes and destroy its breeding grounds - crippling Aedes mosquito from spreading dengue and reduce the like hood of Zika at the same time.

There are many things we have yet to learn about the virus and its complications to humans. However, Malaysians should be aware of symptoms to infection that may arise. Symptoms may include red eyes, fever, headache, rashes, and joint pain and muscle pain. If you have symptoms within two weeks after travelling to an area of Zika, refer to the nearest hospital or clinic.

The symptoms are generally mild and may last two to seven weeks. There is currently no vaccine for Zika.

In addition to Zika spreading through mosquito bites, the virus also can pass from mother to child during pregnancy, through sexual activity and blood transfusion. According to the World Health Organisation, infection during pregnancy is a cause of congenital brain abnormalities, including microcephaly.

However, there is uncertainty on how likely it is that Zika infection will affect the pregnancy, or the baby will have birth defects, if the mother is infected during pregnancy. Most women in Zika-affected areas will give birth to normal infants. According to the Health Ministry, women should delay their plans to get pregnant for at least a month upon returning from travelling abroad to areas affected with Zika.

However, those who would like to continue are recommended to do a Zika virus test and request advice from a doctor. Pregnant woman are advised not to travel to areas with Zika. If you must travel, talk to a doctor first and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from Zika. You can also check countries affected with Zika at the Health Ministry website (www.infosihat.gov.my) or World Health Organisation website (www.who.int).

In our efforts to reduce the spread of Zika, we need to kill Aedes mosquito and take the necessary steps to protect ourselves from infection. This includes using mosquito nets, installing window screen mesh guard nets for mosquitoes and using repellent. In addition, cover, empty and clean buckets, pots and gutters that can serve as breeding grounds for mosquito. Prevention and action begins with us, let’s do our part in keeping our community safe from Zika and dengue.- Mkini