Zika count rises to 16 in Trinidad

TRINIDAD:  April 15, 2016: The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to provide an update on the latest confirmed Zika Virus Infection cases in Trinidad and Tobago. As of Friday, April 15th, 2016 there have been sixteen (16) confirmed cases in Trinidad. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.
The newly confirmed cases are as follows:
·         35 year old female from St. Ann’s who presented with a rash, fever, generalized pains and conjunctivitis
·         30 year old male from Belmont who presented with a rash, fever and generalized pains
·         30 year old female from Diego Martin who presented with a rash, fever, generalized pains and conjunctivitis
The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps to prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones:
·         Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.
·         Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.
·         Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.
·         Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.
·         Cover extremities when out in the evenings.
·         Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.
·         Use insect repellent that contains DEET as an active ingredient.