DOH: 10 new Zika cases in PH

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – The number of Zika cases in the Philippines has reached 33, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday, November 15.

In an ambush interview with reporters during the celebration of the Philippine Antibiotic Awareness Week, Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial said there are 10 new Zika cases as of Sunday, November 13.

All 33 cases are located in 4 regions: National Capital Region, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, and Central Visayas:

• Iloilo – 12 cases
• Bacoor, Cavite – 4 cases
• Mandaluyong City – 3 cases
• Calamba, Laguna – 3 cases
• Antipolo City, Rizal – 2 cases
• Las Piñas City – 2 cases
• Muntinlupa City – 2 cases
• Cebu City – 1 case
• Caloocan City – 1 case
• Makati City – 1 case
• City of Manila – 1 case
• Quezon City – 1 case

On Wednesday afternoon, November 16, Health Spokesperson Eric Tayag confirmed one of the new cases from Las Piñas City is pregnant.

The 16-year-old had skin rash and fever at the 32nd week of her pregnancy, Tayag said in his Twitter account. 

@Dok_Pau confirms second pregnant #Zika; 16 year old from Las Piñas city; had skin rash & fever at 32nd week of her pregnancy; No ultrasound

— Doc Eric Tayag (@erictayagSays) November 16, 2016

Health officials reported the first confirmed local transmission of the virus in September. Meanwhile, the pregnant woman from Cebu City is still being monitored by the health department.

Zika, which resembles a light case of the flu, is transmitted by mosquito species found in tropical and sub-tropical regions: Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, or tiger mosquitoes. (READ: What DOH is doing to deal with Zika, other public health threats)

The disease is strongly suspected of causing birth defects such as microcephaly and other brain deformities in newborns. (READ: FAST FACTS: Zika virus) – Rappler.com

For assistance or inquiries on the Zika virus, the DOH has established 24/7 hotlines that can be reached at (02) 711-1001 or (02) 711-1002.