Zika infections rise to 304 in Singapore

Twelve new cases of the locally transmitted Zika virus infection have brought the total number of infections in Singapore to 304, it was announced on Friday.

The Ministry of Health and National Environment Agency (NEA) said in a joint statement that among these newly reported cases, 10 cases are linked to the the main cluster spanning Aljunied Crescent, Sims Drive, Kallang Way and Paya Lebar Way while one case is linked to the Elite Terrace cluster, Xinhua news agency reported.

The other new case has no known links to any existing cluster.

The NEA is continuing with vector control operations and outreach efforts in the cluster areas. As of Thursday, a total of 183 breeding habitats have been found and destroyed.

Outreach activities supporting the 'Mozzie Wipeout Movement Against Zika' will be conducted all over Singapore to urge all residents to join in the collective effort in the fight against Zika. A '5-step Mozzie Wipeout' -- including removing stagnant water and not littering -- would be conducted.

Aligned to the dengue control approach, the NEA reiterated that they will continue to work with stakeholders and the community to reduce mosquito breeding, as vector control is key to reducing the transmission of Zika in the community.

--IANS

vgu/dg