WHO: No Zika cases reported so far in Middle East

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said Sunday no cases of the Zika virus have been reported so far in the Middle East.

In a statement WHO Regional Director Ala Alwan has called on governments in the Middle East to work together to keep the region protected as the virus outbreak continues to spread, reaching 24 countries in the Americas.

"No cases have been reported so far in this region, but this type of mosquito exists in several countries here, so it is essential that government leaders take steps to prevent the virus from spreading if travelers returning from affected countries are infected with the virus," he added.

"Because of current non-availability of specific treatment or vaccine, the best form of prevention is protection against mosquito bites," Alwan stressed.

Alwan urged all countries to enhance surveillance for early detection of Zika virus infection, particularly among travelers returning from countries where the virus is currently circulating.

WHO is working globally to support countries where the disease has been detected to help understand the potential link between the virus and birth defects, to reduce the international spread of the disease and to help expedite the development of a vaccine or treatment for Zika virus disease, the statement said.

WHO does not recommend any restrictions on travel or trade but this decision will be reviewed regularly, it added.