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Posted: 5th August 2016

‘Small number’ of Zika cases identified in Scotland
aedes mosquito
ZIka is primarily spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.
Virus ‘does not pose a public health risk’

A small number of Zika cases have been identified in Scotland, the Scottish Government has confirmed.

According to BBC News, the disease has affected up to five people.

In a statement, the Scottish Government said that the mosquito is not found in the UK and does not pose a public health risk.

"We can assure the public that Zika does not pose a public health risk in Scotland, and of the cases identified in the UK a very small number have been found in Scotland.

“The mosquito that spreads the virus is not found in the UK, and in any case would not be able to establish in Scotland because of our climate.”

They add: “We have already informed the at-risk groups about the risks and how to protect themselves through Health Protection Scotland's travel advice. We continue to closely monitor developments in our understanding of the Zika virus as treatments and testing regimes develop."

Currently there is no vaccine to prevent Zika virus, which is primarily spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.

While most people infected with Zika will only experience mild symptoms, the disease has been linked to microcephaly in babies.

The condition results in babies being born with smaller brains that might not have developed properly.




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