Zika in Suriname: Emerging virus ­ Established vector

ABSTRACT

This Power Point presentation by the Suriname Director of Health, addresses the Zika outbreak in Suriname, the progression of the spread of the virus and the response of the Surinamese government with respect to containing the spread of the disease. The presentation outlines steps taken in preparation for an outbreak of Zika, after the virus' first appearance in Brazil in 2015. Strategies adopted at the entomological, epidemiological, surveillance and vector control levels in Suriname are outlined. The presentation also addresses prenatal consultation and monitoring, antenatal monitoring of Zika positive pregnancies, and updating of Aedes material to include Zika-V information for use in schools and other training. Finally, the presentation addresses the drafting of new risk communication strategies and Zika response strategies at the national level, the lessons learned, and the challenges associated with the Zika virus.