KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Health says its National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has increased its capacity to field questions concerning Zika, especially for pregnant women.

According to a release from the ministry today, the increased activity includes two additional telephone numbers for the public to access Zika information, effective today.

The new numbers are 537-1709 and 536-9125 and the public will be able to get assistance from Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 4:00pm each day.

“We are on a drive to ensure the public is fully aware of Zika and its complications and this is just another step in engaging everyone,” said Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton.

Tufton added that “all hands on deck are needed” as they continue their efforts in the fight against Zika.

The Zika virus has been linked to foetal malformations (one of which is Microcephaly — a condition where a child’s head is abnormally small and is associated with underdevelopment of the brain) and neurological disorders including Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Individuals who wish to obtain more information may call the Ministry of Health, the nearest health centre, or visit the ministry’s website at moh.gov.jm.