No Cases of Zika Reported in Puerto Vallarta

NEW YORK - Feb. 11, 2016 - PRLog -- According to the State of Jalisco’s Secretary of Health and its vector-borne and zoonotic disease division no cases of Zika have been reported in Puerto Vallarta where the city has proactively managed initiatives to prevent and control vector-borne diseases like dengue, Chinkugunya and Zika.

Zika is a mosquito-borne viral infection which is spread by the same Aedes aegypti mosquito that transmits dengue and Chikungunya viruses. The Zika virus infection is a new and emerging disease in Mexico with only a minimal number of cases identified. Previous to this, the city of Puerto Vallarta had already been working on preventative measures with its population and tourism infrastructure including a state coordinated Tourism and Health program that awards establishments with a certification known as Distintivos H for their hygiene and cleanliness.

Preventative measures against the Aedes Aegypti mosquito is part of the region’s ongoing health programs. Initiatives including larval control and the fumigation of city streets, beaches and river beds, in-home spraying of insecticide and as well as an aggressive public awareness campaign and community outreach are being reinforced along Jalisco’s coastal areas including Puerto Vallarta.

In addition, Jalisco’s Secretary of Health uses a robust system of epidemiological surveillance, which enables the early detection of cases and helps minimize the possible spread of such diseases.

The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board and the Hotel & Motel Association consider the health and safety of its visitors and local residents of utmost priority and will continue their efforts, alongside the local tourism industry, as well as city, state and federal authorities, to implement effective preventative measures.