What You Need to Know About the Zika Virus
Disease facts
- Spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected “Aedes” species mosquito
- Most common symptoms:
- fever
- rash
- joint pain
- conjunctivitis (red eyes)
- Illness is usually mild and vague; many do not seek treatment therefore never knowing that they were infected
- First discovered in 1947 in Uganda; additional cases in Asia and Pacific Island
What has changed and why now all of the hype?
- In 2015, the first confirmed case of Zika diagnosed in South America
- In 2016, the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency relating the Zika Virus with birth defects such as microcephaly (brain/head abnormalities) and a neurological disease called Guillian-Barre Syndrome
- Cases of the Zika virus are now evident in the Caribbean and other tropical tourist areas
What we know about the Zika Virus
- Can be spread from a pregnant mother to her fetus during pregnancy
- Can be spread from an infected male to his partner sexually
- Can be spread to a person from a mosquito that had bit an infected person
- The Aedes mosquitoes are aggressive DAYTIME biters – (They can also bite at night)
- There is NO vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat the Zika virus
How can I prevent getting the Zika virus?
- Applying mosquito repellent that is EPA approved: When used as directed, EPA registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective even for pregnant and breastfeeding women (DEET or Picardin products)
- If applying sunscreen also, apply sunscreen before applying insect repellent
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin
- Stay in places with air conditioning
Should I avoid travel if I am pregnant or trying to become pregnant?
- Consider delaying travel if possible
- If you must travel, speak with your doctor first
- Strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites
Tags: bugs, mosquito, pregnancy, prevention, protection, symptoms, virus