Samoa’s Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Health has clarified that there is currently no major concern about the Zika virus in the country.
"The first case that came out positive of Zika was in September last year, and we’ve been monitoring if it goes viral. However, since September no other cases have come up to this date," said Leausa Toleafoa Dr. Take Naseri.
"So this gap is too far for it to be epidemic, because when a virus is new, everyone is vulnerable, and by now we should have at least a hundred cases."
"There is no sign of an epidemic or widespread (cases), but that does not stop people from being aware and preparing," Leausa said.
He said they do not want people to panic after the international media reported Samoa being on a Zika virus alert.
Leausa said there are cases of dengue fever and Samoa is dealing with them.
Zika like dengue is spread by mosquitoes.
Leausa said people should use mosquito nets as well as eliminate all mosquito breeding places.
These include cutting overgrown grass, clearing stagnant water in drains and tyres and burying cans and any other containers that may collect water.