Trinidad and Tobago - Zika outbreak 2016

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Wednesday, February 17, 2016


Port-of-Spain, February 17th, 2016:

The Ministry of Health wishes to advise that Trinidad and Tobago has reported its first laboratory case of Zika. This case is a 61-year-old female. The case was confirmed today, Wednesday 17th February, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).


The blood sample which was tested was tested by CARPHA was sent by a private laboratory. The patient recently travelled to New Zealand in January 2016. However, as New Zealand is a Zika-free country, the indications are that this is a locally acquired case.


The Ministry is in the process of acquiring more details about the confirmed case. This will be done primarily to determine the patient’s well-being, as well as to ensure that the Ministry of Health continues its eradication efforts in the area.


While the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago works at managing this threat, the public is also reminded to take personal responsibility in dealing with mosquito borne diseases.


1. Dispose of all unwanted containers/items that may collect water.

2. Cover water barrels, drums or buckets with a tight fitted lid.

3. Keep your drains and guttering clean.

4. Empty and scrub the sides of water vases.

5. Wear clothing to cover your arms and legs.

6. Apply insect repellent to exposed skin.

7. Sleep under a mosquito bed-net.[/TD]
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http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=630

 

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CMO: Patient contracted Zika locally

Rachael Espinet
Published:
Thursday, February 18, 2016

Dr Clive Tilluckdharry, Chief Medical Officer, confirmed that the new case of Zika was contracted locally.

Speaking on today?s The Morning Brew on CNC3, Tilluckdharry said while he could not disclose the exact location of the woman, he revealed that she resided in the St George community. Port-of-Spain is located in the St George county.

He said the patient is currently resting comfortably and he intends to visit her today.

Tilluckdharry said he expects more cases of Zika in the St George?s county following the diagnosis.
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http://www.guardian.co.tt/news/2016-02-18/cmo-patient-contracted-zika-locally

 

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Zika virus infection ? Trinidad and Tobago

Disease Outbreak News
29 February 2016

On 18 February 2016, the National IHR Focal Point of Trinidad and Tobago notified PAHO/WHO of the country?s first case of Zika virus infection.

The patient is a 61-year-old female who reported fever and rash on 10 February. The patient?s blood sample was taken on 13 February and, on 17 February, was confirmed to be positive for Zika virus by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) laboratory.

The patient has a history of recent travel to New Zealand, which has not reported any locally-acquired cases of Zika virus infection. As such, transmission in Trinidad and Tobago is likely to be autochthonous.

Public health response

Since the identification of Zika virus in Brazil in May 2015, the Ministry of Health of Trinidad and Tobago has embarked upon a public education campaign to promote knowledge and awareness about the disease and its transmission. The emphasis is on the environmental measures of source reduction as the key method to combat the spread of disease. Clinical personnel have been sensitized to identify and appropriately manage the disease. The Insect Vector Control Division has scaled up environmental surveillance and mosquito eradication programs in communities.

The Ministry of Health will continue to partner with other governmental agencies, the private sector and the wider population to promote source reduction practices and appropriate health-seeking behaviour.

WHO risk assessment

The detection of autochthonous cases of Zika virus infection indicates that the virus is spreading geographically to previously unaffected areas (Trinidad and Tobago). The notification of autochthonous transmission in a new country does not change the overall risk assessment. The risk of a global spread of Zika virus to areas where the competent vectors, the Aedes mosquitoes, are present is significant given the wide geographical distribution of these mosquitoes in various regions of the world. WHO continues to monitor the epidemiological situation and conduct risk assessment based on the latest available information.

Despite some reports of a potential association between Zika virus, microcephaly and other neurological disorders, at this stage, it is not possible to establish a causal relationship between these events. Until more is understood, Members States are advised to standardize and enhance surveillance for microcephaly and other neurological disorders, particularly in areas of known Zika virus transmission and areas at risk of such transmission.

WHO advice

The proximity of mosquito vector breeding sites to human habitation is a significant risk factor for Zika virus infection. Prevention and control relies on reducing the breeding of mosquitoes through source reduction (removal and modification of breeding sites) and reducing contact between mosquitoes and people. This can be achieved by reducing the number of natural and artificial water-filled habitats that support mosquito larvae, reducing the adult mosquito populations around at-risk communities and by using barriers such as insect screens, closed doors and windows, long clothing and repellents. Since the Aedes mosquitoes (the primary vector for transmission) are day-biting mosquitoes, it is recommended that those who sleep during the daytime, particularly young children, the sick or elderly, should rest under mosquito nets (bed nets), treated with or without insecticide to provide protection. Mosquito coils or other insecticide vaporizers may also reduce the likelihood of being bitten.

During outbreaks, space spraying of insecticides may be carried out following the technical orientation provided by WHO to kill flying mosquitoes. Suitable insecticides (recommended by the WHO Pesticide Evaluation Scheme) may also be used as larvicides to treat relatively large water containers, when this is technically indicated.

Basic precautions for protection from mosquito bites should be taken by people traveling to countries with transmission of Zika virus, especially by pregnant women. These include use of repellents, wearing light colored, long sleeved shirts and pants and ensuring rooms are fitted with screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

WHO does not recommend any travel or trade restriction to Trinidad and Tobago based on the current information available.

http://www.who.int/csr/don/29-februa...and-tobago/en/

 

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Zika Virus Update: March 5th, 2016

Port-of-Spain, March 5, 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to inform the public that two additional cases of the Zika virus in Trinidad have been confirmed. This brings the total number of confirmed Zika cases in Trinidad to three. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.

The Ministry notes that these two new cases are located in La Romaine, San Fernando and appear to have been locally acquired. This underscores the need for all citizens across the country to take steps to prevent infection of this disease. The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps that will prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones.
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http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=633

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Zika Virus Update: March 10th, 2016

Port-of-Spain, March 10, 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to inform the public that one additional case of the Zika virus in Trinidad has been confirmed. This brings the total number of confirmed Zika cases in Trinidad to four. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.

This newly confirmed case is located in the area of Tunapuna and the patient, a 30 year old female who was referred by the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex has no recent travel history which indicates that the case was locally contracted. The Insect Vector Control Division and the County Medical Officer of Health have been informed; and field work has commenced. The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps to prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones.
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http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=636

 

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Zika Update: March 17th 2016

Thursday, March 17, 2016

Port-of-Spain, March 17th, 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to inform the public that one additional case of the Zika virus in Trinidad has been confirmed. This brings the total number of confirmed Zika cases in Trinidad to five. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.

This newly confirmed case is located in the area of D?Abadie and the patient, a 47 year old female was treated at the Arima Health Facility after presenting with joint pains and conjunctivitis (?Red Eye?). The Insect Vector Control Division and the County Medical Officer of Health have been informed; and field work has commenced. The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps to prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones.

Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.

Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.

Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.

Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.

Cover extremities when out in the evenings.

Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.

Use insect repellant that contains DEET as an active ingredient.

http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=638

 

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Zika Virus Update: March 22nd 2016

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Port-of-Spain, March 22nd, 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to inform the public that one additional case of the Zika virus in Trinidad has been confirmed. This brings the total number of confirmed Zika cases in Trinidad to six. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.

This newly confirmed case is located in the area of Gulf View, La Romaine and the patient, a 37 year old male presented with fever, rash and joint pains. The San Fernando City Corporation, Insect Vector Control Division and the County Medical Officer of Health have been informed; and field work has commenced. The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps to prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones.

Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.

Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.

Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.

Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.

Cover extremities when out in the evenings.

Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.

Use insect repellant that contains DEET as an active ingredient.

http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=639

 

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[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Thursday, April 07, 2016 [/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Port-of-Spain, April 7th 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) wishes to inform the public that two additional case of the Zika virus in Trinidad have been confirmed. This brings the total number of confirmed Zika cases in Trinidad to 11. There are at this time, no confirmed cases in Tobago.[/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]The Ministry notes that these two new cases are located in Oropouche and Barataria and appear to have been locally acquired. Both patients presented with a rash, fever and generalised body pains.[/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]The Insect Vector Control Division; County Medical Officers of Health for St. Patrick and St. George West; the Siparia Regional Corporation and the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation were informed and field work has commenced.[/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]The Ministry of Health continues to urge citizens to take steps to prevent the infection of themselves and their loved ones.[/FONT]

1. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.[/FONT]
2. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.[/FONT]
3. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.[/FONT]
4. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.[/FONT]
5. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Cover extremities when out in the evenings.[/FONT]
6. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.[/FONT]
7. [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Use insect repellent that contains DEET as an active ingredient.[/FONT]

http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=647
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Doctor: Zika babies could be born in T&T soon
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Published on Aug 5, 2016, 11:55 am AST
By By Kim Boodram

Babies affected with abnormalities caused by the Zika virus may be born later this year in Trinidad and Tobago, head of the Mt Hope Women's Hospital Dr Karen Sohan said on Friday.

Speaking at a ministry of health press conference at its park and Edward streets office in Port of Spain, the doctor said that some 60 pregnant women have already tested positive for the Zika virus and around 48 have been seen at Mt Hope.

Of that, about 35 are closer to the term when any foetal abnormalities typically become readable, while the others are still too soon to tell, she said.
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There have however been two live births from women infected with Zika and no abnormalities associated with the virus were detected, said Dr Sohan.

Since the declaration in January by Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh of a national health emergency in anticipation of Zika, 215 cases of Zika have been confirmed locally.
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http://www.trinidadexpress.com/20160805/news/doctor-zika-babies-could-be-born-in-tt-soon

 

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T&T gov't denies Zika responsible for latest Guillain-Barre Syndrome in babies

Wednesday, August 10, 2016 | 2:49 PM

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) ? Health authorities here have ruled out the mosquito-born Zika virus as being responsible for the seven cases of babies being affected by the Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS).

The Ministry of Health in a statement noted that it wanted to address the concerns of the public following a news report that indicated seven babies were affected by GBS as a result of the Zika virus.
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GBSIt said ?while there have been seven cases of GBS in Trinidad (and Tobago) for 2016, tests have ruled out Zika as the cause and all of these patients were adults?.
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http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news...-for-latest-Guillain-Barre-Syndrome-in-babies

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Link between Zika Virus and Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Tuesday, August 09, 2016

Port-of-Spain, August 9th, 2016:

The Ministry of Health wishes to address the concerns of the public following a news report that indicated seven babies were affected by Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of the Zika virus.

While there have been seven cases of GBS in Trinidad (and Tobago) for 2016, tests have ruled out Zika as the cause and all of these patients were adults.

GBS is a sickness of the nervous system in which a person?s own immune system damages the nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and sometimes, paralysis. While several countries experiencing Zika outbreaks have recently reported increases in GBS, it is important to note that there are several other medical conditions that can cause Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

Investigations into the link between GBS and Zika continue worldwide and while current research suggests that GBS is strongly linked to Zika, only a small number of people with Zika virus infection get Guillain-Barre Syndrome.

The Ministry of Health reiterates the importance of source reduction in the prevention of Zika virus infection.
? Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.
? Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.
? Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.
? Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.

http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=677

 

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[TD][FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Zika Virus Update: August 25th 2016[/FONT][/TD]
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[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Thursday, August 25, 2016 [/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Port-of-Spain, August 25th, 2016:

The Ministry of Health, following consultation with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) would like to inform the public that as of August 25th, 2016, the number of confirmed cases of Zika Virus in Trinidad and Tobago stands at 335. Ten of these cases are in Tobago. The number of Zika positive pregnancies is 170.[/FONT]
[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]The Ministry reminds citizens that four of five infected persons will not show any symptoms of the Zika virus and that only ?high risk? cases are confirmed by CARPHA. High risk cases are:-[/FONT]

• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Pregnant Women[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Children under five years[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Persons over sixty years[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Hospitalized cases[/FONT]

[FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]The public is also advised that Regulation 27 of the Public Health (Yellow Fever Regulations) 1979, made pursuant to Section 105(1) of the Public Health Ordinance, Chapter 12 No. 4 has been amended, to increase the fine for unkempt properties or any harborage that may become a mosquito breeding ground from $500 to $3500. Public Health Inspectors from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government have been mandated to carry out inspections and execute fines against delinquent property owners.

The Ministry of Health continues its efforts to monitor and manage Zika and other mosquito borne diseases. However, the elimination of breeding sites is the best way to reduce the incidence of mosquito borne diseases. Citizens are encouraged to follow the under-mentioned steps to prevent infection of themselves and their loved ones:[/FONT]

• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Dispose of all unwanted containers/items in the yard or environs which can collect water and become mosquito breeding grounds.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Cover water containers such as barrels, drums or buckets with a mosquito proof covering.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Ensure that your drains and guttering allow the free flow of water.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Empty and scrub the sides of water vases or use dirt or sand instead to support flowers.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Cover extremities when out in the evenings.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Use bed nets that are tightly tucked under the mattress for protection at night.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif]Use insect repellent that contains DEET as an active ingredient.[/FONT]

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http://www.health.gov.tt/news/newsitem.aspx?id=685​

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