Monday’s front page news about the first baby born here with “characteristics of microcephaly” understandably led to some concern. That the mother came from Saba is pretty much beside the point in light of that island’s close proximity.
It’s not confirmed yet what led to this particular situation (see related story). However, infection with Zika during pregnancy has been acknowledged internationally as a possible cause of the condition.
Moreover, there have been many documented cases elsewhere in the region, so this wasn’t such a big surprise either. Particularly for a popular travel destination with visitors from all over the world one could even argue it had only been a matter of time.
Having said that, there is absolutely no reason the public should panic. Just one patient at St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) hardly means there’s the risk of an epidemic.
If indeed Zika is the culprit, it’s important to remember that the virus can only be transmitted via mosquitoes, which also spread dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.
Especially after abundant rainfall, the best way to prevent these diseases is to combat the blood-sucking insects by eliminating stagnant water that serves as their breeding sites, keeping doors and windows screened off, wearing protective clothing and using repellent.
Not getting bitten by mosquitoes at all seems almost impossible, but in that sense it’s a bit like Russian roulette. With only one bullet in the chamber, a lot may depend on how many times the revolver is fired.
