13 Indians in Singapore test positive for Zika

NEW DELHI: Thirteen Indians have tested positive for Zika virus in Singapore and are undergoing treatment in the city-state which is grappling with rising number of the mosquito-borne disease.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said Indian Embassy in Singapore has reported that 13 Indians have been affected by Zika virus.

"As per our Embassy in Singapore, 13 Indian nationals have tested positive for Zika in that country," he said.

He said as per Singapore's Ministry of Health, the affected Indians were showing "mild symptoms" and have either recovered or are recovering.

"Their recovery process is being monitored closely. Due to patient confidentiality, the Singapore authorities are unable to share details of these patients without their consent. The cases seem to be localised in a defined area," said Swarup.

He said Indian Mission is in "constant close touch" with the Ministry of Health of Singapore and will continue to follow up to ensure that Indian Nationals receive full medical support.

There has been a surge in number of people affected by Zika virus in Singapore, particularly those working in construction sites.

In February, the World Health Organisation had declared Zika a public health emergency after women affected by it had given birth to children with microcephaly, a birth defect with small head size.

Foreign nationals including six Bangladeshis and 21 Chinese are also among the 115 confirmed Zika cases in Singapore.