THE revelation that there may be more local cases of Zika than the 19 recorded by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services so far should be of concern.
As our report on Page 3 today reveals, Health Ministry permanent secretary Dr Meciusela Tuicakau says this is because 80 per cent of all people with Zika are asymptomatic — meaning they are not showing symptoms of the disease.
His comments came as the Ministry of Health began the “Fight the Bite – Clean Up Fiji Campaign” aimed at combating mosquito-borne diseases such as chikungunya, Zika virus and dengue fever.
Dr Tuicakau said the Zika cases were recorded in the Western and Central divisions.
Our President Jioje Konrote, who launched “Fight the Bite” campaign, said while Fiji was familiar with dengue fever and to a lesser extent chikungunya, the Zika virus was starting to affect people.
These diseases, he said, were not only a problem in Fiji, but also globally, causing severe illness and deaths.
The Zika virus is carried by the aedes mosquito, the same species which spreads dengue and chikungunya.
Symptoms associated with the virus include a slight fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, and feeling tired. The symptoms usually subside within 1-2 weeks.
This Zika revelation will no doubt raise concern.
It commits us to be a part of the fight against mosquitoes.
This must start in our own back yards.
We must destroy mosquito breeding places.
We must keep our compounds clean, properly dispose old cans and bottles, clear rubbish piles and ensure there is no stagnant water around.
But are people aware of the danger posed by these dengue-carrying mosquitoes? If you move around parts of Nasinu for instance, you would probably be surprised. This does not seem to be the case in some places.
Some compounds are still overgrown, some drains are clogged, and some people are just not taking heed of advice and reminders. So what can concerned citizens do?
Understandably people do have the right to do what they want within the confines of their property. But when it comes to the safety and wellbeing of neighbours and the general population, perhaps municipal councils should take appropriate action to drive through the message that the fight against sicknesses carried by mosquitoes needs the support of every stakeholder.
Otherwise we will just be going through the motions, struggling to fight a battle that is simply not going anywhere.
There are many people who are doing the right thing, but there are equally as many inconsiderate people.
If you are one of them, we hope you will come to your senses and do the right thing. Acknowledgment is due for all those who have made a concerted effort to clean up their back yards.
Forget about Brazil, remember Zika is here! Let’s do the right thing.
Let’s eradicate mosquito breeding places.
