Educate people on Zika virus

 THE mosquito-borne Zika virus was declared an international public health emergency on Monday by World Health Organisation according to Media reports. 

There have been articles in the two dailies everyday about the spread of the virus reaching the other Pacific countries and it is only a matter of time before the first case is reported in PNG. 

The Department of Health and its partner agencies would do well to start informing the public which includes the rural populace as well about the virus and the appropriate actions that individuals and families should take to avoid getting infected. 

It is common in Papua New Guinea for something drastic to happen before appropriate actions are taken.

Health officials by now should be on their toes informing Province and District Health Authorities to start putting systems in place in preparation if and when the virus enters this shore. 

Not everyone has access to the information therefore as much as possible use other forms of media to educate our people about this virus.

Information has to go all the way down to the rural majority so all Papua New Guineas can get prepared to Prevent rather than seek medical help to get cured which doesn’t come easy for many.

Palili, Via email