Zika Virus Invades the Philippines

by Geremayah A. Batalla

Zika virus is a member of virus family Flaviviridae. It is spread mostly by the bite
of an infected Aedes mosquito. Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have
symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika are
fever, rashes, headache, joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eye) and muscle pain.
Its name comes from the Ziika Forest of Uganda, where the virus was first
isolated in 1947. Zika virus is related to the dengue, yellow fever, Japanese
encephalitis, and West Nile viruses.
Zika virus can be transmitted through a bite of an infected mosquito, having
sexual intercourse with an infected person, being pregnant while having the virus and
through blood transfusion.
We already have many cases traced here in the Philippines of Zika, and 8 were
female. Since we are in Laguna, it was reported that we have case traced to Muntinlupa
upon verification. And the other cases were found in Region VI and Region VII. DOH
statement said that a 19-week pregnant from Cebu (Central Visayas Region) who was
diagnosed with the Zika virus.
The Doctor found that the baby was negative from any abnormalities but DOH
will still monitor the baby from microcephaly. Researchers, Zika virus shows effects
poses a bigger risk for pregnant women in their first trimester.
There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika virus. However, to avoid it, you
must treat the symptoms take a rest, drink fluids, take medicine and consult the doctor.
To avoid: use wear long pants and sleeved shirt thick enough use EPA repellent over
sunscreen.
DOH, together with their researchers, is working hard to find the solution to this
kind of virus. Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial and Assistant Sec. Eric Tayag reminds us to
be careful of this virus (ZIKA).