WHO China: No Zika Reported in China to Date, Risk of Transmission Currently Low

Zika, a disease caused by the Zika virus, is a virus that is transmitted by infected Aedes mosquito. There have not been any reported cases of the disease on the Chinese mainland to date, a statement from the World Health Organisation (WHO) reads.

“WHO is working closely with the Chinese health authorities to discuss the implications of this Public Health Emergency of International Concern. However, the risk of a widespread outbreak of Zika virus disease in China appears to be low at this point in time. We will of course continue to closely monitor the situation,” said Dr. Bernhard Schwartländer, WHO Representative in China.  

There is a chance that an imported, or travel-related case will occur, as has been the case in other countries, but during the current colder winter months the risk of transmission in China is low. If an outbreak does occur, the WHO predicts that cases will most likely arise in China's southern coastal areas and places where there are higher numbers of mosquito-related illnesses via transmissions, such as dengue fever.

The virus is suspected to be linked to increased chances of the fetus developing microcephaly during pregnancy, a rare condition defined by the baby having an abnormally small head due to irregular brain development either within the womb or during infancy. Babies and children with microcephaly will often continue to suffer brain development issues as they grow older.

If you are traveling to a Zika infected area (mostly Central and South America at this time) for Spring Festival, make sure to protect yourself against mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing more clothes to cover up exposed skin (preferably light-colored), and closing barriers such as screens, doors, and windows when inside.

The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (bloodshot eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week.

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