The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the geographical reach of the mosquito-borne Zika virus has been widening steadily since its first detection in the Americas last year.

The WHO said ongoing transmission of Zika virus has been reported in 47 countries and territories and the virus is likely to be transmitted in areas where mosquitos conducting the virus, such as the Aedes aegypti, exist.

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On Tuesday, the WHO issued new guidelines that suggest the best ways to stop the transmission of Zika virus and eliminate mosquito population.

The guidelines focused on using effective and safe insecticides in interrupting the transmission of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.

Aside from insecticide use, the WHO also suggests other strategies to reduce Zika transmission, such as eliminating mosquito breeding site, personal protection against insect bites, covering the body with as much clothes as possible, among others.

The WHO also encourages countries affected by the Zika virus to strengthen its monitoring of the spread of the disease and to try new approaches that can be used in the future.

In early February, the WHO has declared a global emergency following the Zika outbreak in Central and South America. Chinese authorities have also been on alert.

This week, health authorities in China said the total number of imported infections on the Chinese mainland has risen to 12, after a 47-year-old father and his 6-year-old daughter tested positive for the virus.

Chinese health authorities have already ordered thorough clean up of public venues such as markets, residential places, and bus stations to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.

TagsZika virus, Zika