Zika virus: Tests reveal high likelihood of transmission at Boon Lay Place, residents asked to be careful
MOH and NEA have been running intensive mosquito-control operations in the area after a Zika case was reported last November
SINGAPORE — Residents and those working at Boon Lay Place have been asked to take extra precautions against potentially getting the Zika virus after testing found persistent virus signals in the area.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) and National Environment Agency (NEA) shared on Thursday (22 February) that they have been doing “enhanced surveillance involving mosquito and wastewater testing” for potential Zika transmission since a case was reported in December last year.
Though there have been no new cases reported since, MOH and NEA stated that testing has revealed persistent Zika virus signals in the area, which suggests ongoing Zika transmission. Their joint statement said, “While MOE and NEA have stepped up precautionary measures, we cannot rule out the possibility of further cases as most persons may display mild or no symptoms.”
Doctors urged to watch out for Zika symptoms
The affected areas include Boon Lay Place Market and Food Village, Boon Lay Shopping Centre, Church of St Francis of Assisi, ActiveSG Hockey Village Gym @ Boon Lay as well as Housing Board blocks along Boon Lay Place.
MOH said it has alerted doctors to be vigilant and to test for Zika when patients show clinically compatible symptoms, especially if they reside or work in the Boon Lay area. It also advised residents in and around the area, particularly pregnant women, to protect themselves and monitor their health closely.
Zika virus infection symptoms include rashes, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, headache and/or conjunctivitis (red eye). Affected individuals should also inform doctors of the location of their residence and workplace.
The Zika virus is mainly transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It can also be passed through sex or from a pregnant woman to her foetus.
Most people with the ZIka virus may not develop symptoms. However, in rare cases, the virus can cause microephaly in unborn babies of pregnant women. There are currently no vaccines or specific anti-viral drugs against Zika virus infection.
NEA has been conducting intensive mosquito-control operations in the Boon Lay area since November 2023 when dengue cases were reported. Grassroots leaders have also been activated and mobilised for house visits to remind residents in dengue clusters to ensure that they frequently check for and remove stagnant water in their premises.
“Residents are urged to allow NEA officers to inspect their premises, and spray insecticide to enable immediate removal of adult mosquitoes to stop the chain of Zika transmission," said MOH and NEA.
How to prevent Zika transmission
To protect against the Zika virus, individuals can:
- Spray insecticide in the dark corners around the house
- Regularly apply insect repellant that contains Deet, picaridin or IR3535 as the active ingredient.
- Wear long-sleeve tops and long pants
- Install wire-mesh mosquito screens or ensure rooms are enclosed to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
Since the start of the year, there have been three reported cases of the Zika virus. The first case of Zika transmission in Singapore, which led to an outbreak, was discovered in 2016.
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