Travellers to be under close surveillance for Zika virus

Travelers returning from countries where the Zika virus is spreading will be put under close surveillance to ensure public safety.

The viral outbreak has become a cause of international concern with the virus said to be circulating at an explosive pace. It has spread to South and Central America and is now in atleast 21 countries in the Americas. When asked whether any restrictions have been placed on travel to the Americas, a Health Ministry spokesperson told DT News that currently the Ministry is following the instructions provided by the World Health Organization(WHO) which advises "enhanced surveillance" on travelers returning from high risk countries. The spokesperson pointed out one of the WHO instruction which reads "Enhance surveillance for early detection of Zika virus infection, particularly among travelers returning from countries where the virus is currently circulating."

WHO stated that it does not recommend any restrictions on travel or trade, although adding that the matter will be reviewed regularly. "Because the situation varies by country, WHO recommends travelers also consult the relevant national health advice before traveling to any affected country" it stated.

According to the Ministry, there is not risk of outbreak of the virus in Bahrain as 'aedes aegypti', the mosquito that carries the disease, is absent in the Island. The Ministry stated that it constantly updates with the latest development and it has taken all measures to for public safety.

Numerous European tourists who returned to their home countries after their visit to high risk countries were tested positive for Zika viral infection. Last week Denmark and Switzerland reported Zika infections among returning travelers.