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All 7 suspects of Zika virus in S.Korea test negative

Xinhua, February 3, 2016 Adjust font size:

All seven South Koreans suspected of carrying Zika virus have been tested negative, the country's disease management agency said Wednesday.

The seven suspect cases have been confirmed negative for the virus after genetic screening test, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).

The country's health authorities designated the Zika virus as one of legal infectious diseases on Jan. 29, an action which forces doctors to report on suspected cases.

The Zika is known as a virus transmitted by mosquitoes. It is not active in winter, but South Koreans are advised to report on symptoms, including fever, pain of muscles and joints, rash and headache, after traveling to affected countries especially in Latin America.

The virus is rarely fatal for normal adults but can cause birth defects, including abnormally small heads and brains called microcephaly, to newborn babies. Pregnant women, or those planning pregnancy, are being advised to take special caution. Enditem