NACDS Foundation Launches Digital Zika Education Initiative in Puerto Rico

To inform Puerto Rico residents of the threat of the Zika virus, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation has set up a digital Zika education campaign.

Previously, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) verified that Zika infection causes microcephaly as well as other birth defects, and that it can be fatal. In Brazil alone, 1,271 cases of microcephaly have been confirmed to be caused by the virus. In an effort to prepare healthcare officials for the impending Zika threat, the CDC hosted a Zika Action Plan teleconference on Monday, May 9, 2016, where communication outreach targeting the general public was discussed. During this teleconference, it was noted that communication plans need to be tailored to each region of the United States and its territories, since some areas (such as Puerto Rico) are experiencing active Zika transmission, while others have only seen cases of imported or sexually transmitted infections.

On May 9, 2016, the NACDS Foundation began releasing radio messages, targeting pregnant women and women of childbearing age. The messages are intended to inform individuals of the threat of Zika virus infection on fetuses. The initiative calls on pregnant women and their families to engage in effective infection prevention measures, advising couples to discuss conception with their doctor or local pharmacist.

In a press release, Luis Fortuño, former governor of Puerto Rico, stated “I personally appreciate this meaningful work to help the people of Puerto Rico address a public health situation facing this generation and generations to come…At times like this, the needs are great, and raising awareness is among those critical needs. I applaud the philanthropic and private entities that are playing a vital role in this emerging public health threat, like the NACDS Foundation’s campaign that will help get the word out about prevention.”

To read the Spanish radio script and the English translation, or to hear the message, visit the NACDS Foundation website.