The Ministry of Health has cautioned that persons infected with the zika virus should practice safe sex.
Current research has shown that not only can zika be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her foetus but can also be transmitted via sexual intercourse with an infected man.
“The virus actually stays alive and viable quite long in a man’s semen. If a man has been infected with Zika Virus Disease, he may have no symptoms, and may recover from the rash in about a week, but the virus can actually live in the sperm for weeks and some say possibly up to six months; so it hangs around a bit in men.” Medical Officer, Dr. Merlene Fredericks said.
The zika virus spreads primarily through the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Its symptoms include rash, fever, joint pain and conjunctivitis (red eye).
According to the Chief Medical Officer, the World Health Organisation (WHO), is taking advantage of this new opportunity to thoroughly examine a new disease in the region. Current research has shown that not only can zika be transmitted from a pregnant woman to her foetus but can also be transmitted via sexual intercourse with an infected man.
“An informative read on the crucial role of safe sex in battling Zika. 👍 It’s alarming to learn how long the virus can stay active and the risks it poses, especially to pregnant women. This article is a stark reminder of the importance of sexual health education and precautionary measures. Let’s spread awareness to keep our communities safe! #SafeSex #ZikaAwareness #HealthFirst”