Zika Virus Outbreak as International Emergency as Declared by WHO
Zika virus has declared as an international public health emergency over the explosive spread of the mosquito-borne by World Health Organization (WHO) . After emergency meeting conducted by WHO for independent experts headed by WHO Director-General Margaret Chan at Geneva, Switzerland.
- The meeting was conducted to measure the outbreak of the virus which is linked to birth defects in the Americas.
Key facts:
- The meaning of Deceleration of international emergency is that there is underscoring importance of outbreak and requirements of a synchronized global response and greater attention to stop it.
- WHO has forecasted that about four million people might be sick with Zika virus in the Americas (South and North America) .
- And WHO has declared an international public health emergency for the forth time.
- Previously, the first emergency was declared after the H1N1 swine flu pandemic in 2009.
- In 2014, the UN Health agency had declared two emergencies for the deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa and a resurgence of polio in Syria and other countries.
About Zika virus:
Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
It is close companion of other vector-borne sicknesses like:
- Dengue,
- Chikungunya and
- Yellow Fever.
It was first recognize in 1947 in Uganda.
It was named from Zika Forest.
Transmission:
It is mainly transmitted by daytime-active Aedes aegypti mosquitoes after it bites someone infected with the virus and transmit it by biting another human, but it still not contagious.
Most common symptoms:
- Headache,
- muscle and joint pain,
- mild fever,
- rash,
- pinkeye and
- Inflammation of the underside of the eyelid.
It also causes neurological disorders and foetal deformation called Microcephaly.
Treatment and Prevention:
- Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available for its prevention.
- But for prevention, try to get protection against mosquito bites and clearing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
✍Examrace Team at Feb 2, 2016