WHO urges Southeast Asian nations to take decisive action against Zika

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: The World Health Organisation has urged Southeast Asian nations to take decisive action against Zika Virus as the number of cases of the deadly disease are on the rise.

Keeping in view especially the recent two cases of the Zika-related microcephaly in Thailand, this this notice has been issued by WHO.

"Zika virus infection is a serious threat to the health and wellbeing of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. Countries across the region must continue to strengthen measures aimed at preventing, detecting and responding to Zika virus transmission," said a WHO Southeast Asian region office (WHO-SEARO) statement here.

According to the organisation, the presence of Zika in Southeast Asia has been documented in recent years, including from Thailand, Indonesia, Maldives and Bangladesh.

"Thai authorities have been active in detecting and responding to Zika. Thailand's diligence underscores the commitment of health authorities to the health and well being of the Thai public, and provides a positive example to be emulated," said the statement.

(With IANS inputs)