Brazil Declares End To Zika Emergency After Drop In Cases
Brazil has declared an end to its public health emergency over the Zika virus.
The announcement comes 18 months after a surge in cases which revealed the mosquito-borne virus can cause birth defects.
It was not considered a major threat until the 2015 outbreak – amid the country’s preparations for hosting the 2016 Olympic Games.
Brazil’s health ministry said the number of cases fell by 95% between January and April, compared with the same period last year.
But it warned “the end of the emergency doesn’t mean the end of surveillance or assistance” to affected families.
Adriana Melo, the Brazilian doctor who raised the alarm about a link between Zika and birth defects during the early days of the outbreak, added: “The important thing now is that we don’t forget the victims.”
Measures to reduce the number of mosquitoes which carry the virus will remain in place.
The Zika virus is associated with a birth defect called microcephaly when contracted by pregnant women. It can result in children being born with abnormally small heads and brain damage.
The World Health Organisation lifted its own international emergency in November, but cautioned that the virus remained a threat.
The virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1947.
Those infected typically suffer mild flu-like symptoms.
Although it is mostly spread by mosquitoes, it can also be sexually transmitted.
Travel warnings were issued in countries across the globe, including in the UK, with pregnant women urged to consider postponing non-essential trips to affected areas.
Men were advised to wear condoms for 28 days after returning from affected countries.
