Singapore declares Zika virus spread at dangerous level

(Baonghean.vn) - The number of confirmed cases of Zika virus infection in Singapore increased to 82 on August 30. With some cases detected outside the initial outbreak area, the government officially confirmed the spread of Zika virus.

Workers spray insecticide in an area believed to be experiencing a Zika virus outbreak in Singapore. Photo: Reuters.

On 30 August, at least five of the 26 new confirmed cases of Zika virus infection in Singapore were detected outside the initial outbreak area of ​​Aljunied in the southeastern part of the country, prompting the Ministry of Health and the National Environment Agency (NEA) to officially declare a state of emergency.

Immediately after Singapore officially confirmed the spread, several countries such as Australia, Taiwan and South Korea issued warnings to their pregnant or pregnant women to avoid traveling to the country.

Neighboring countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia have also stepped up protection measures, placing thermal scanners at airports and border checkpoints with Singapore.

With the Zika virus declared a public health emergency, Singapore's tourism industry is expected to face a number of challenges amid a slowdown in global economic growth. However, the Singapore Tourism Board said it was too early to assess the impact of the Zika virus on the industry, while affirming that Singapore remains a "safe travel destination".

Thanh Hien

(According to Reuters)