This 2006 photo provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a female Aedes aegypti mosquito in the process of acquiring a blood meal from a human host. On Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, U.S. health officials are telling pregnant women to avoid travel to Latin America and Caribbean countries with outbreaks of a tropical illness linked to birth defects. The Zika virus is spread through mosquito bites from Aedes aegypti and causes only a mild illness in most people. But theres been mounting evidence linking the virus to a surge of a rare birth defect in Brazil. (James Gathany/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via AP)
Women in St. Vincent and the Grenadines who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, are among those across the region being advised by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to follow all the safety guidelines which have been set out in preparation for the fight against the Zika Virus.
The Zika Virus is a viral illness that is transmitted by the bite of an Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are Fever, Rash, Joint pain, or Conjunctivitis.
PAHO’s Country Representative for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Anneke Wilson says while the Zika Virus has not yet been detected here, women should pay attention to information about the Virus and take safety measures.
Miss Wilson also advised pregnant women to seek professional advice before travelling.
