Two suspected cases of Zika in Singapore have tested negative for the virus
A medical researcher works on results of tests for preventing the spread of the Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases at the Gorgas Memorial institute for Health Studies laboratory in Panama City. Photo: Reuters
SINGAPORE — As of yesterday, there were two suspected cases of the Zika virus here, but both have tested negative for the infection, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said today (Feb 6).
The ministry was responding to TODAY’s queries on the number of suspected cases of the mosquito-borne virus tested in the Republic so far.
This update follows a raft of measures implemented in the last fortnight to ramp up Singapore’s preparation against the Zika virus.
The latest series of measures - announced on Wednesday - include expanding the testing of suspected cases to public hospital laboratories, in addition to running blood tests at the National Public Health Laboratory.
A Clinical Advisory Group will also be established to provide expert advice on the management of pregnant women who contract the virus, given the strong suspected causal link between the contraction of the Zika infection during pregnancy and microcephaly.
Earlier this week, the World Health Organization had declared clusters of birth defects with suspected links to the virus an international public health emergency.
The MOH spokesperson today also reiterated the need for the public and doctors to remain vigilant against the Zika virus and to do their part to reduce the risk of it taking root in Singapore.
“As vector control remains the mainstay to prevent transmission of the virus, we urge everyone to take the appropriate precautions to prevent mosquito breeding by doing the 5-step Mozzie Wipeout weekly,” the spokesperson added.
