The Ministry of Health continues to receive assistance from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to strengthen and implement protocols in relation to Zika Virus and antenatal care. Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Sharon Belmar-George noted the importance of improving the current protocols particularly as Zika Virus has been associated with neurological defects, such as microcephaly, in newborns. The PAHO one day workshop brought together, Pediatrician, Obstetricians, Family Nurse Practitioners, alongside other health professionals to discuss and compare guidelines from the Caribbean and the World Health Organization in an effort to improve early diagnosis of pregnant mothers infected with the Zika Virus. Dr. George added that increases in microcephaly have been noted in the region thus St. Lucia she says will continue to monitor babies born to mothers suspected or confirmed with the Zika Virus Disease.

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