Brunei's Ministry of Health (MoH) yesterday advised the public not to panic over reports that a 61-year-old man in Likas, Sabah is believed to be the first locally transmitted Zika infection in Malaysia.

The Moll issued a statement last night to say that the Moll I has taken note of the "emerging situation" in Sabah.

"The situation in the region continues to evolve and the geographical spread of Zika virus disease appears to be widening and has now affected our neighbouring countries, Singapore and Malaysia.

"Even though, there have been no reported cases of Zika virus infections in Brunei Darussalam, the Ministry of Health continues to remain vigilant and to strengthen our capacity to prevent, detect and, control infection in the country and has developed the 'Ministry of Health Preparedness Plan for the Prevention and Control of Zika Virus Disease' to prepare for eventualities," according to the statement.

The MoH added that, "As a country, we need to engage fully where each and every Individual must share responsibility in preventing outbreaks of Zika virus in Brunei Darussalam. The most effective way of doing this is by eradication of mosquito breeding sites.

"Environmental sanitation is important and we must make sure that we empty, clean and cover containers that can hold even small amounts of water, such as plastic containers, buckets, flower pots and tyres. Ensure also that all drains are clean, functioning properly and not blocked. All rubbish must be disposed of properly.

"In addition to eradication of breeding sites through environmental sanitation, we can also take measures to prevent ourselves being bitten by mosquitoes. These include wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing that covers the skin, using mosquito repellents, and avoiding being outside at dusk (early evening) or dawn (early morning), unless necessary.

"Regarding travel restrictions, in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, the Ministry of Health does not advice on any travel or trade restrictions with the affected countries, or any screening or isolation of travellers

at points of entry. Pregnant women are however advised to avoid non-essential travel to Zika-affected areas.

"Also, if a pregnant woman or her spouse has recently travelled to a Zika-affected country, both partners should adopt safer sexual practices or abstinence for the entire pregnancy.

"It is important that individuals who have visited affected countries or are travel ling from the affected countries, who subsequently develop symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, headaches and muscle aches within two weeks of entry into Brunei Darussalam get assessed at the nearest health facility."

The Mon said it will continue to monitor evolving events in collaboration with the World Health Organization, and its counterparts within Asean. "We continue to remain vigilant and prepared and call upon all stakeholders including members of the public to participate fully in the national effort to prevent and control Zika virus infection through ensuring environmental sanitation."

For further information on the Zika virus and mosquito-borne diseases, the public can visit the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.gov.bn or call Darussalam line 123.

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

If you have any stories or news that you would like to share with the global online community, please feel free to share it with us by contacting us directly at [email protected]