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Patients treated for Zika in Northern Ireland
Aedes mosquito
Zika virus is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.
Risk to the public ‘very low’

A handful of people living in Northern Ireland have been treated for Zika virus.

According to the Public Health Agency, up to five people have been confirmed with the disease since 2015.

It is thought that all those infected had a history of travel to Zika infected areas.

Spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, Zika often occurs without symptoms but it can cause a mild, flu-like illness.

In February, the virus was declared a global public health emergency after the World Health Organisation found that it was linked to birth defects.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Public Health Agency said there is no specific treatment for Zika virus disease other than supportive measures, such as hydration.

“There is no change to the current Zika risk assessment, in that the risk to the public in Northern Ireland is very low,” they add. 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.