Dear Editor,
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) is reminding Guyanese to adopt all of the necessary precautionary measures to avoid the contraction of the Zika virus, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes polynesiensis mosquitoes.
In order to prevent the entry of the Zika virus into Guyana, persons should avoid unnecessary travel to places where the virus is known to be present. If they must travel to these areas, then all precaution must be taken against being bitten by mosquitoes.
Persons who travel to Guyana should inform the Port Health Authority at the airport, seaport or land crossing or contact the nearest health facility, if they had symptoms of fever within the last week. The necessary advice and follow-up care would be provided.
In order to prevent mosquito bites, persons should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Some mosquitoes bite during the day also, so using repellents and wearing protective clothing can help prevent bites.
Particularly, the MoPH is advising that all pregnant women and children must sleep under mosquito nets. The Zika virus causes some abnormalities in developing foetuses so it is now strongly recommended that all pregnant women avoid being bitten.
Natural substances, household insecticidal sprays, coils, candles, among other things, can assist in reducing the presence of mosquitoes around the home.
Screening of windows, doors and other openings along with closing-up in the evening can aid in reduction of mosquitoes in the home.
In order to control the spread of the Aedes aegypti and Aedes polynesiensis mosquitoes, persons should conduct systematic searches in and around their environment for any stored, exposed body of water and remove these sources of mosquito breeding.
Additionally, persons should rid their environs of tyres, punch holes in discarded containers, properly cover containers with stored and drinking water, pour a little oil in contained water for domestic use, and change water regularly in vases, pet containers and plant saucers.
The MoPH continues to take all precautionary measures to ensure that the Zika virus does not enter Guyana and health officers are on guard to identify any cases.
Symptoms of the Zika virus include fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, rash and sometimes swelling of the limbs. Some persons may also experience vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
Persons who experience any of the symptoms, including fever are advised to seek medical advice at the nearest health facility or call the Ministry of Public Health on 226-5124 or 226-1224 or e-mail cmoguyana@gmail.com.

Health Ministry
Guyana