Dhaka: Health Minister Mohammad Nasim on Tuesday said Bangladesh should not worry about Zika virus as the government has strengthened surveillance at air, water and land ports across the country and travellers coming from countries affected by Zika epidemic are being screened.

Mohammad Nasim, addressing a press conference at the Ministry of Health conference room, said trained health workers are appointed at airports and entrances of Bangladesh to identify Zika infected travellers. 

He said government will bear the cost of treatment if any case of the virus identified in the country.

The health minister said World Health Organisation (WHO) declared global health emergency after the outbreak of Zika in 30 countries of South America, Caribbean Islands, and several countries of Europe and Asia.

We have taken some initiatives to prevent infiltration of Zika virus. The authorities have already sent special messages to civil surgeons and Health and Family Welfare officials over the country, added the minister.

Mohammad Nasim added, steps have been taken to face emergency and implementation of national strategy and planning about Zika virus.

We also ensure active medical teams in every terminal to identify Zika infected people from the Zika affected countries, said the minister.

Zika virus disease usually requires no specific treatment. People sick with Zika virus should take rest, drink enough fluids, and treat pain and fever with common medicines.

According to the WHO, If symptoms worsen, they should seek medical care and advice. Currently, there is no vaccine available.