Zika Virus Are In Nigeria:Minister of Health

ABUJA —THE Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, has said that the mosquitoes carrying Zika virus are in Nigeria and urged Nigerians to protect themselves by using mosquito nets.

He also called on Nigerians to remain calm, be vigilant and report any suspected case of an acute febrile illness in pregnant women, in particular, to any nearest health facility.

Adewole made this disclosure at a press briefing, yesterday, in Abuja, where he explained that the mosquitoes were active and flying, adding that they bite during the day and early morning. He said: “Nigerian scientists working in Western Nigeria in 1954 discovered Zika virus in Nigeria. Further studies in the years 1975 to 1979 showed that 40 per cent of Nigeria adults and 25 per cent of Nigerian children have antibodies to Zika virus, meaning they are protected against this virus.