Facebook launches initiative to combat Zika virus
"As a community, we can help fight the Zika virus by raising awareness. Facebook has partnered with the non-profit Abrasco Divulga in Brazil as part of an effort we'll also roll out across Latin America," Mark wrote on his Facebook page.
"The Zika virus has spread to more than 20 countries and is one of the biggest public health challenges right now. For pregnant women who get the virus, it has been linked to brain damage for their babies," he said.
"The virus is carried by mosquitoes. There are no medicines to treat or prevent the virus yet, so right now the most important thing is to try to avoid mosquito bites," Mark said.
Following yesterday’s declaration of a public health emergency of international concern regarding the cluster of microcephaly and other neurological disorders in relation to the Zika virus, United Nations agencies on Tuesday highlighted their actions to support affected communities.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Zika virus has spread rapidly and has so far been detected in 25 countries, with a surge in cases of microcephaly particularly in northeastern Brazil.
The protocol for diagnosing it starts with measuring the head of a newborn at least one day after birth to see if it is below a certain level. The disease could be responsible for a number of problems, from convulsions to learning disabilities.
Image: Mark Zuckerberg facebook page
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