Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Two people from Metro Manila are confirmed to have Zika virus infections. They are the two latest cases of Zika in the Philippines, as confirmed by Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial on Friday. This brings the total number of locally-transmitted cases of Zika in the Philippines to 17.
The Zika patient from Makati is a 42-year-old male, while the second patient is a 27-year-old non-pregnant female from Mandaluyong.
The Zika virus strain in Brazil and Africa are known to cause microcephaly (a condition where an infant has an abnormally small skull and brain, accompanied by neurological disorders) in some cases. This is why pregnant women are considered especially at risk when they contract Zika.
However, Ubial said citing the World Health Organization, the Zika virus strain in the Philippines could be a different strain from that found in Brazil and Africa. She said the WHO believes, the Zika virus in the Philippines is endemic to the Western Pacific.
The Department of Health reminded the public to destroy mosquito breeding sites, use approved insect repellents, and cover exposed skin to avoid getting infected.
They urged people experiencing symptoms — skin rashes, fever, red eyes, and headache — to immediately consult with government health agencies.
CNN Philippines correspondent Pia Bonalos contributed to this report.
