The Zik-V virus, also known as Zika, is currently spreading across Central and South America, with a growing number of cases across the United States. At the moment, there are no fatalities due to the virus. However, pregnant women are at risk for birth defects with no cures or vaccines available. Below you will find facts, tips and the current race to keep it under control.
World Heath officials are on the ground. Since May 2015 health officials have been monitoring the spread, and collecting data from physicians across the affected areas.
The virus has been here for decades. During the 1940s, scientists discovered the virus while collecting studies in the Zika forests of Uganda for the yellow fever.
It shares a carrier. The Aedes mosquito (known for spreading Dengue and Chikungunya), is also responsible for the spread of Zika. In addition to the same carrier, the symptoms are almost identical.
Pregnant women are definitely at risk. After 3,000 infants were born with birth defects in Brazil, health officials (both foreign and domestic) are advising pregnant women to avoid any travel to affected countries. Regardless of your stage in pregnancy, the risk for birth defects involves micro-cephaly, seizures and other forms of lifelong brain damage.
The only treatment involves a combination of fluids, time, rest and non-inflammatory pain medication with little to no outdoor contact. Some of the symptoms include skin rashes, fever, red or irritated eyes and body aches.
If you or someone you love suspects that he/she may have contracted the virus, please do not consume any medication for your aches and pains until your doctor has confirmed Zika for sure. The Zika and Dengue fever are very similar; however the treatments are totally opposite. If your diagnosis turns out to be Dengue, the pain medications used for body aches and pains can actually do more harm than good.
If I have to visit one or more of the affected areas, what should I do? If traveling is a must, then loose clothing and insect repellents are your best friends. If you were planning to stay in a rural setting, you may opt for a hotel instead, since you are far more protected.
Should I visit the doctor when I return? Yes. In fact, if you’re taking a trip with your significant other, there is no harm in taking a pregnancy test before you travel and a blood test when you return to make sure you did not contract the disease.
For more information regarding this disease, please contact your local health department or health care professional.
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