Zika virus outbreak in Lampang

LAMPANG, June 7 (TNA) – Six persons in the northern province of Lampang have contracted the Zika virus, reported Lampang public health office. In response to the outbreak, officials have implemented measures to eradicate mosquito larvae in the breeding sites and began mosquito control fogging in residential areas. Aedes aegypti is the primary mosquito that transmits Zika virus. Dr Warinthep Chueasamran, preventive medicine specialist of Lampang public health office said the Zika virus infections were reported in Wang Nuea district in May. Fifty persons had fever with rash. Urine and blood tests were conducted on seven patients. Six patients tested positive for the Zika virus. He warned pregnant women to beware of possible exposure of Zika virus as it could contribute to the birth defect, Microcephaly. Residents are urged to destroy mosquito breeding grounds. Patients infected with Zika usually have fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, joint pain, headache that last a few days to one week. (TNA)