The World Health Organization (WHO) advised women in areas with the Zika
virus on Wednesday to protect themselves, especially during pregnancy,
by covering up against mosquitoes and practicing safe sex through the
use of condoms.
It issued recommendations for women regarding microcephaly and other
neurological disorders linked to the mosquito-borne Zika virus that has
been found in more than 30 countries including Brazil, which has
reported babies with birth defects.
The Geneva-based United Nations agency did not recommend travel
restrictions, instead suggesting that women consult their doctors or
authorities if travelling.
More
evidence is needed to confirm whether sex commonly transmits the Zika
virus, it said, noting that Zika has been found in semen and citing a
report of sexual transmission in the United States. There is no vaccine
or treatment for Zika.
"Until more is known, all men and women living in or returning from an
area where Zika is present - especially pregnant women and their
partners - should be counselled on the potential risks of sexual
transmission and ensure safe sexual practices. These include the correct
and consistent use of condoms, one of the most effective methods of
protection against all sexually-transmitted infections," the WHO said.
Pregnant women in general, including those who develop symptoms of Zika
virus infection, should see their health care provider for close
monitoring.
But the WHO was also somewhat reassuring, declaring: "Most women in Zika-affected areas will give birth to normal infants."
Microcephaly is a rare condition where a baby is born with a small head
or the head stops growing after birth. It can result in developmental
delays as well as seizures, hearing loss, vision problems and trouble
swallowing.
"Early ultrasound does not reliably predict microcephaly except in extreme cases," the WHO said.
Zika virus has been detected in breast milk but there is currently no
evidence that the virus is transmitted to babies through breastfeeding,
it said. WHO's current breastfeeding recommendations remain valid, in
particular exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.
The outbreak of Zika across the Americas has raised the issue of a woman's reproductive rights including abortion.
"Women who wish to terminate a pregnancy due to a fear of microcephaly
should have access to safe abortion services to the full extent of the
law," the WHO said.
SOURCE: NDTV
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