The Tribune

HEALTH officials have seen an increase in the Zika virus, with 18 cases now reported.

The Ministry of Health, on its website, advised that as of October 28, there were 18 confirmed cases of Zika on New Providence.

As of October 3, there were 17 cases.

“All cases sought medical attention after having symptoms suggestive of Zika virus infection,” the ministry noted. “All patients have been treated for associated symptoms and are doing well. Based on the histories received from the cases it has been determined that there is a mix of travel associated and local transmission.

“The Ministry of Health is intensely monitoring the situation with an active surveillance programme within the Department of Public Health, and in partnership with the Department of Environmental Health is continuing its intense vector control and mosquito management.”

In October, Chief Medical Officer Dr Glen Beneby said since the passage of Hurricane Matthew, he was of the opinion that the number of persons reporting mosquito bites was less than before.

Dr Beneby attributed this to the storm’s “high winds,” which he surmised might have caused the adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes - the virus’ vector - to either “take flight or be blown out of the area.”

The Ministry of Health said anyone who thinks they or a family member has a Zika infection should visit their doctor.

For further information, contact the National Disease Surveillance Unit at 502-4776, 502-4790, 376-3809 or 376-4705.