Unsettling Growth In Zika Virus Infections Lead To Urgent Alert From Disease Control Department
Having witnessed an alarming upsurge in the Zika Virus cases, the Department of Disease Control (DDC), Thailand, resonated a stern warning, revealing how the sudden peak has become an imminent public health threat. The countdown to panic began as a startling number of 266 cases were reported this past month alone.
Rather worryingly, expectant mothers find themselves increasingly at risk from the virus that could result in their newborns suffering from microcephaly, a condition characterized by an underdeveloped brain—an indelible mark that the Zika Virus leaves.
The public health announcement, issued on August 27, warned the masses about the recent meteorological changes. The monsoon season, characterized by consistent rainfall, appears to be the main culprit behind these increasingly ideal conditions that the disease-bearing mosquitoes need to thrive, multiplying the risk of Zika and other mosquito-related infections.
Data from the last month reveals that over 24 provinces had reported new cases of Zika. It’s high time we focus our attention on areas like Chanthaburi and Phetchabun, rattled by an unprecedented number of Zika cases – 37 and 23, respectively.
When contracted by pregnant women, the Zika Virus becomes a harbinger of grave issues like birth defects, developmental delays, and in some horrifying instances – miscarriages. Symptoms such as high fever, visible rash, red eyes, and joint pain may be indicative of a potential Zika infection, urging the need for immediate medical attention.
The greatest safeguard against not just Zika, but also dengue fever and chikungunya, diseases transmitted by the infamous Aedes mosquito, lies in meticulous prevention of mosquito bites. Every community must ensure an environment that is mosquito-free and must discard all water-collecting containers that may serve as their breeding grounds. If such vessels are left unchecked, the larvae nestled inside them can transform into adult mosquitoes within 7-10 days, potentially infecting numerous people.
Multiple strategies can prevent mosquito bites – from the simple measure of using mosquito nets at bedtime, to effective mosquito repellents, even installing fine mesh mosquito screens could help safeguard a household. The DDC introduced its blueprint for containing these viruses, introducing the “three cleans” approach:
- Clean House: A clutter-free, well-kept home minimizes the chances of mosquito nesting.
- Clean Refuse: Timely and proper disposal of garbage and potential mosquito breeding sites is crucial.
- Clean Water: Ensuring water containers are well-covered prevents mosquito eggs, while introducing fish can eliminate the larvae.
Adherence to these effective steps could ensure the prevention of dreadful illnesses like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. For anyone seeking further information, DDC’s hotline 1422 is open for queries at all times. Stay updated by following “The Thaiger” on their newly launched Facebook page.
Be First to Comment