Ecuador on Alert for Zika virus, mosquitoe transmitted

MINISTER OF HEALTH: By virtue of the notification made by Colombia on October 16, 2015, before the first 9 cases of Zika virus infection presented in that country, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / ​​World Health Organization (WHO) issued an update on epidemiological alert, which states: “Given the expansion of Zika virus transmission in the Region of the Americas, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) / ​​World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that Member States establish and maintain the capacity to detect and confirm cases of infection (…), prepare health services to a potential additional burden at all levels of health care, and implement an effective public communication strategy to reduce the presence of the mosquito transmitter (…)”. Previously, cases of Zika fever in Brazil, confirmed in May 2015 were presented; Also, in Easter Island, Chile territory in Polynesia, in February 2014.

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Zika fever is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which are the same transmitters of dengue and chikungunya. In our country there is endemic presence of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. To transmit the disease, one of these mosquitoes to bite and then a sick person to a healthy person.

PAHO / WHO says the disease is caused by Zika virus. Reports that according to literature the virus was first isolated in 1947 in Zika forest in Uganda for research Rhesus monkeys, while human infection was found in 1952 in Uganda and Tanzania. Since 2007, cases were filed in Oceania.

The disease is caused by the virus Zika and consists of mild fever, rash, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, malaise and non purulent conjunctivitis that occurs within three to twelve days after the bite of a mosquito. One in four people can not develop symptoms, but who themselves are affected the disease is usually mild and the symptoms can last between two and seven days. The symptoms are similar to dengue and chikungunya. A person can only get sick once by Zika. The treatment is to relieve pain and fever or other discomfort that causes discomfort to the patient.

PAHO / WHO reports that complications are rare, but have been documented outbreaks in French Polynesia. According to research, this group of islands in 70 serious cases of a total of 10,000 cases with neurological complications (Guillain Barre syndrome and meningoencephalitis) and autoimmune complications (thrombocytopenic purpura, leukopenia) occurred. In such cases, hospitalization is required.

The Ministry of Public Health of Ecuador (MSP) has issued an epidemiological alert mandatory for health facilities of the Comprehensive Public Health Network and the complementary network (ie, all public and private institutions), allowing the timely detection of all patients suspected symptoms such as fever below 38.5 C, inflammation of the joints in the hands and feet, red spots on the skin, conjunctivitis. The lowest temperature of 38.5 C and the possible presence of difference conjunctivitis symptoms Zika fever symptoms of dengue and chikungunya.

The notification in case of suspicion must be immediate and sampling and investigation of the case within the first 48 hours, home visits, community active search, classification and final case report.

THE continuously MSP recommends to the community:

Controlling the proliferation of Aedes aegypti (characterized by its striped legs), through the elimination of breeding sites:
Permanently delete cans, tubs and containers where rainwater collects.
Permanently remove stagnant water puddles, pots, toilets, tires, etc.
Tightly covered containers containing useful water and apply larvicide given by the MSP.
Brush well all tanks and container containing useful maximum water every 5 days.
Promptly communicate a suspect case health units.
Use and fine mesh nets on doors and windows.
Use light clothing that protects against insect bites, long-sleeved shirts, long pants and closed shoes.
Apply repellent on exposed skin areas.
Use the awning to sleep.
If symptoms such as high fever, red eyes, malaise, red spots on the skin and joint pain go to the nearest health center and do not treat yourself. Read Article