August 15, 2016: The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) would like to inform the public that as of August 12th, 2016, the number of confirmed cases of Zika Virus in Trinidad and Tobago stands at 254. Six of these cases are in Tobago. The number of Zika positive pregnancies stands at 78.
The Ministry reminds citizens that four of five infected persons will not show any symptoms of the Zika virus and that only ‘high risk’ cases are confirmed by CAPRHA. High risk cases are:-
• Pregnant Women
• Children under five years
• Persons over sixty-years
• Hospitalized cases
The Ministry of Health continues its efforts to monitor and manage the outbreak of Zika and other mosquito borne diseases and urges citizens to follow the under-mentioned steps to prevent infection of themselves and their loved ones:
• Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.
• Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.
• Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.
• Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.
• Cover extremities when out in the evenings.
• Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.
• Use insect repellent that contains DEET as an active ingredient.