Gov’t proposes inclusion of Zika on infectious diseases list

A doctor holds a tube containing a larva of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the carrier of the Zika virus

The government has proposed the inclusion of the Zika virus in Macau’s official list of infectious diseases, according to a statement published by the Government Information Bureau.
The announcement comes after the Health Bureau in Macau was notified on Tuesday by the National Health and Family Planning Commission of the first imported case of Zika on the mainland [more on page 11].
According to the statement, the government is undertaking efforts to closely monitor developments relating to the Zika virus. From March the government will launch a mosquito eradication campaign in a bid to combat the threat.
In addition the government plans to strengthen existing monitoring and detection measures for uncovering possible cases of the virus, and bolstering international cooperation with the World Health Organization and mainland and Hong Kong authorities.
Authorities have also suspended the acceptance of blood donations from persons who have visited the affected territories in Latin America, unless the persons in question have been back in Macau and symptom-free for more than 28 days. The suspension came into effect on February 5.
Travellers intending to visit the affected areas are recommended to wear light-colored and long- sleeved clothing, apply insect repellant and stay in air-conditioned places. If any symptoms are discovered, such as a fever or a rash, travellers should seek medical advice immediately.