A woman who traveled to an area with active Zika transmission contracted the mosquito borne virus becoming the first such case in Nova Scotia. She has recovered from her illness.
Image/Qyd
“The risk of Zika infection is very low for Nova Scotians and Canadians. To our knowledge, no cases of local transmission from a mosquito to a person have occurred in Canada, said the MOH Deputy Chief, Dr Frank Atherton. Nova Scotians who are traveling to countries affected by Zika, and especially pregnant or considering becoming pregnant women should take preventive measures to reduce exposure to mosquitoes. ”
The overall risk in Canada is very low. Mosquitoes known to transmit the virus are not established in Canada and are not well-suited to our climate.
Health officials advise Nova Scotians traveling to a country affected by Zika can protect themselves:
– By using an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin on exposed skin
– By sleeping under a mosquito net if accommodation is in the open or in an unlocked place
– Reserving a place with mosquito nets in good condition or completely closed and with air conditioning
– By wearing light-colored clothing with long sleeves, long pants and shoes instead of sandals
As of May 12, 80 travel-related cases and 1 locally acquired case through sexual transmission have been reported in Canada.
Related:
One thought on “Nova Scotia reports 1st Zika case”