Singapore steps up measures to reduce risk of Zika virus

Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) said on Wednesday that it has introduced additional measures to reduce the risk of the Zika virus taking root in Singapore.

The precautious measures were taken after the World Health Organization declared the Zika virus as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on Monday due to its links to thousands of birth defects in Brazil.

Currently blood samples of suspected Zika virus cases are tested at the National Public Health Laboratory. The MOH said it will expand Zika virus testing capability to public hospital laboratories.

Also, as a causal relationship between Zika infection during pregnancy and microcephaly is strongly suspected, the ministry will set up a Clinical Advisory Group on Zika virus infection and pregnancy to provide expert advice on the management of pregnant women with Zika virus infection.

"As Zika is transmitted through mosquitoes, vector control remains the mainstay to prevent transmission of the Zika virus," the MOH said.

"The National Environment Agency has already stepped up its vector control efforts, in partnership with the community, agencies and stakeholders, to control the mosquito population in response to the ongoing dengue outbreak." Enditem