What to know about ZIKA VIRUS

What is the Zika Virus?
The Zika virus was first
discovered in the 1950’s and is
also known as Zika fever or
Zika disease. It is a virus that
is carried by infected mosquitos
and is transferred to humans
through mosquito bites.
Throughout recent years, this
virus has been spreading quite
rapidly throughout Africa and
southern and central American
and scientists are warning that
it could soon grow to pandemic
proportions.
What are the Symptoms of the
Zika Virus?
A person who has been infected
with the Zika virus could exhibit
the following symptoms:
1. Fever
2. Mild Headache
3. Rash
4. Joint Pain
5. Conjunctivitis (inflammation
and redness of the eyes)
These symptoms will usually
appear 2-7 days after first
being bitten and are usually
fairly mild. Most symptoms will
start to subside after a few
days and should be completely
clear within a week’s time.
So far there have not been any
deaths or long-term
complications reported in
adults that have contracted this
virus.
The Zika Virus and Pregnancy
Although the Zika virus does
not seem to pose a large threat
to the majority of the
population, there does appear
to be an increased risk to
pregnant women who contract
this virus. Scientists are finding
a connection between a birth
defect called microcephaly and
mothers who became infected
while pregnant. Studies are
showing a higher incidence of
babies being born with this
disorder when their mothers
were bitten with a Zika infected
mosquito while pregnant.
It is recommended that
pregnant women or those who
are thinking of becoming
pregnant, avoid high risk areas
and take all necessary
precautions to protect
themselves from being bitten by
mosquitos.
Is there a Cure for the Zika
Virus?
Currently there is no cure for
this virus. Scientist are working
diligently to find a vaccine but
until then the best method of
protection is prevention. Wear
clothing that covers your skin
when outside and always use a
mosquito repellent. Use
mosquito nets when sleeping
and try to avoid infected areas
if at all possible.
Some studies have also shown
that this virus may be able to
be spread through sexual
contact as well. Make sure that
you alway use a condom and
abstain from engaging in sexual
activities with a person who
suspects they have been
infected.
If you do contract the Zika virus
the best treatment is lots of rest
and fluids. An over-the-counter
pain medication like
paracetamol, acetaminophen or
ibuprofen will help with any
discomfort that you may
experienc