The Zika virus which is spread by the Aedes mosquito, has reached some Pacific Islands like the Cook Islands and Samoa. This mosquito can also bring dengue fever and yellow fever. At the moment it is not in New Zealand, but many New Zealanders visit Pacific Islands for a holiday or to stay with family who live there.
In Brazil, hundreds of babies were born with small heads and brain damage, probably caused by the Zika virus. The New Zealand Department of Health is recommending that pregnant women do not visit countries which have this Aedes mosquito. Anyone visiting these countries should wear long sleeves and long trousers, and use an insect repellent to avoid being bitten. The symptoms of Zika are like the symptoms of the flu (influenza) – mild fever, headache, muscle and joint pain – although there is usually a rash on the skin as well.
Brazil is the host of the Olympic Games in August. New Zealand sports women have pointed out the dangers for any women athletes who are pregnant. The danger to a foetus is in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Often women do not realise they are pregnant so early but if there is any doubt, they need a pregnancy test before going to Brazil.
Vocabulary
• virus – causes infection; flu is caused by a virus
• insect repellent – spray it or rub it on your skin to keep mosquitos away
• joint – where two bones join e.g. knee, hip, elbow
• foetus – the baby before it is born
Grammar
‘Recommend’ is a difficult verb to use because it is often followed by a subject (and a clause). Try using ‘that’ after the verb e.g. ‘She recommended that I travel first class.’