By Francis Talasasa
Reporter
(Koror, Palau) One recorded case of a person infected with Zika Virus has been confirmed by the Ministry of Health this week after receiving a laboratory test result from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirming the case.
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According to a statement from the Director of Bureau and Public Health, Mrs. Sherillyne Madraisau, the case has had no recent travel history to any Zika affected area and is likely to have been infected in Palau.
Zika virus is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms of the virus include mild fever, skin rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, weakness or headache.
The Bureau says while it does not want to alarm the public, it urges anyone that may think he or she has been infected with the virus to seek immediate medical attention. Zika Virus infection in pregnant women has been linked to certain birth defects. Regardless of their stage in pregnancy, they must take caution in being infected.
In the meantime, the Bureau of Public Health has initiated activities to control and prevent the spread of the virus.
The Ministry has expressed its gratitude to individuals and communities that have remained vigilant in minimizing mosquito grounds. [/restrict]