Zika Virus Declared Global Health Emergency
Photo: AP Images
The World Health Organization has declared that the Zika virus poses a global public health emergency.
The infection, which experts fear is spreading very fast, has been linked to thousands of babies being born with underdeveloped brains.
This alert puts Zika in the same category of international concern as Ebola and will help fast-track research and aid toward fighting the infection.
Although the mosquito-borne virus’s symptoms are relatively mild, it is believed to be linked to a surge in cases of microcephaly, a condition in which a baby is born with an abnormally small head and brain.
WHO chief Margaret Chan said the link between the Zika virus and microcephaly was “strongly suspected but not yet scientifically proven.”
On its website, WHO says it is deeply concerned about this rapidly evolving situation for four main reasons:
the possible association of infection with birth malformations and neurological syndromes
the potential for further international spread given the wide geographical distribution of the mosquito vector
the lack of population immunity in newly affected areas
and the absence of vaccines, specific treatments, and rapid diagnostic tests
Also, conditions associated with this year’s El Niño weather pattern are expected to increase mosquito populations greatly in many areas.
More on the Zika virus on Yahoo Health:
Zika Virus Symptoms: What Are They?
Do Pregnant Women in the U.S. Need to Worry About Zika Virus?
What to Know About the Zika Virus If You’re Trying to Get Pregnant
U.S. Issues Treatment Guidelines for Infants Exposed to Zika
10 Essential Facts About the Zika Virus
What Happens When Countries Without Abortion Advise Against Pregnancy?
Can Brazil ‘Zika-Proof’ in Time for the Olympics?
Concern over Zika virus grows
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