Zika Virus is Now Present in Nigeria, Minister of Health Warns Nigerians to take Precaution
The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole from Nigeria has warn the country of the imminent spread of Zika virus if proper care is not taken. The Professor has warn Nigerians to make use of their mosquito nets due to the presence of the mosquitoes carrying the Zika virus in the country in other to avoid spread.
During a press briefing last Thursday in Abuja, the Health Minister disclosed that the mosquitoes carrying the zika virus are currently active and flying around in the country and nobody should disregard the use of mosquito nets to avoid contact to this deadly viral disease.
Professor Adewole also added that the Zika-carrying mosquitoes usually bite during the day and early morning or late evenings. He further urge Nigerians to be calm, vigilant and not relent in reporting any suspected case of an acute febrile illness in pregnant women, in particular, to any nearest health facility.
“Nigerian scientists working in Western Nigeria in 1954 discovered Zika virus in Nigeria. Further studies in the years 1975 to 1979 showed that 40 per cent of Nigeria adults and 25 per cent of Nigerian children have antibodies to Zika virus, meaning they are protected against this virus.”
“Despite the fact that some Nigerians are immune to the Zika virus infection as demonstrated by previous studies, it is important and advisable that Nigerians should be careful and protect themselves from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine for Zika virus, and no cure other than rest, plenty of fluids and perhaps over-the-counter medication to reduce fevers, aches and pains as previously mentioned.”
This, therefore, means that prevention is most effective means of preventing transmission. “I advise all Nigerians, particularly pregnant women, to avoid traveling to countries infected with this virus in these periods. If however, you are to visit any country where Zika virus is now being actively transmitted, you are advised to protect yourselves from mosquito bites.”
“Pregnant women considering travel to affected areas may wish to consult their health-care provider prior to travel and after return. They should also practice personal and household steps to prevent mosquito, including putting mosquito repellent on their clothes and skin, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep underneath mosquito nets at night, where possible.” The Health Minister advised.
During a press briefing last Thursday in Abuja, the Health Minister disclosed that the mosquitoes carrying the zika virus are currently active and flying around in the country and nobody should disregard the use of mosquito nets to avoid contact to this deadly viral disease.
Professor Adewole also added that the Zika-carrying mosquitoes usually bite during the day and early morning or late evenings. He further urge Nigerians to be calm, vigilant and not relent in reporting any suspected case of an acute febrile illness in pregnant women, in particular, to any nearest health facility.
“Nigerian scientists working in Western Nigeria in 1954 discovered Zika virus in Nigeria. Further studies in the years 1975 to 1979 showed that 40 per cent of Nigeria adults and 25 per cent of Nigerian children have antibodies to Zika virus, meaning they are protected against this virus.”
“Despite the fact that some Nigerians are immune to the Zika virus infection as demonstrated by previous studies, it is important and advisable that Nigerians should be careful and protect themselves from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine for Zika virus, and no cure other than rest, plenty of fluids and perhaps over-the-counter medication to reduce fevers, aches and pains as previously mentioned.”
This, therefore, means that prevention is most effective means of preventing transmission. “I advise all Nigerians, particularly pregnant women, to avoid traveling to countries infected with this virus in these periods. If however, you are to visit any country where Zika virus is now being actively transmitted, you are advised to protect yourselves from mosquito bites.”
“Pregnant women considering travel to affected areas may wish to consult their health-care provider prior to travel and after return. They should also practice personal and household steps to prevent mosquito, including putting mosquito repellent on their clothes and skin, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep underneath mosquito nets at night, where possible.” The Health Minister advised.
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