Malaysia Registers First Case Of Zika Virus Infection

A woman has been tested positive for Zika virus in Malaysia and this marks the first such case in the country.

It is learned the 58-year-old had returned from a three-day visit to Singapore and showed signs of fever and rash.

Malaysian Health Minister Subramaniam Sathasivam said they are working out on control measures against aedes mosquitoes near the home of the infected woman to further prevent spreading of the Zika virus.

The Zika virus was found in the urine sample of the woman.

According to Subramaniam, vector control activities have been intensified in the locality of the woman – in Taman Botani in Klang. Residents have also been urged to allow the officers to enter their homes for fogging and larvicidal spraying work.

He added five Malaysians have been identified so far having tested positive for the virus in Singapore.

Last Saturday Singapore announced first locally contracted case of the disease.

Meanwhile, the United States Health Officials have noted Zika infections can cause microcephaly if pregnant women are infected.

Microcephaly is a kind of birth defect that restricts the growth of head in the new born. The link first came to light last fall in Brazil where more than 1,600 such cases have been registered so far.