The Zika virus is the newest virus to make national headlines, and just like when we broke down the Ebola outbreak, we want to help answer some questions people have about Zika. So let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about Zika and share some answers.
Zika Virus Questions and Answers
What is Zika?
Zika is a disease which is caused by the Zika virus.
How is Zika Transmitted?
The Zika virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. This type of mosquito is categorized as an aggressive daytime biter, but they also bite at night. Although it’s winter here in Minnesota, if you are traveling somewhere warm and tropical, you could be at risk for the Zika virus. The disease can also be transmitted from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of Zika?
Symptoms are usually pretty mild, but they can vary by person. Symptoms typically include:
- Fever
- Rash
- Joint Pain
- Dehydration
- Redness of the eyes
Symptoms of Zika usually set in within 2 to 7 days of being bitten by a mosquito, but current estimates suggest that only 1 in 5 people infected with Zika will get sick.
How Does Zika Affect Pregnant Women?
Zika has been linked to a serious birth defect called microcephaly, which significantly affects the size of a baby’s head. The disease has also been linked to poor pregnancy outcomes in babies who acquired the condition in the womb.
Where is the Zika Virus?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued travel warning for Mexico and the following countries: In the Caribbean: Aruba; Barbados; Bonaire; Curaçao; Dominican Republic; Guadeloupe; Haiti; Jamaica; Martinique; the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory; Saint Martin; U.S. Virgin Islands. In Central America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama. In the Pacific Islands: American Samoa, Samoa, Tonga. In South America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela.
Is There a Vaccine for Zika?
Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent against Zika transmission.
What is the Best Way to Avoid Contracting Zika?
Since Zika is transmitted through mosquitoes, following normal mosquito-repellent techniques is advised if you’re traveling to tropical areas. Some ways to prevent mosquito bites include:
- Wearing bug spray
- Wearing long sleeves and pants
- Keep screen doors shut
- Avoid marshy areas
How is Zika Treated?
Since you know the symptoms, you can stay ahead of the disease. Treat the disease by getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, taking acetaminophen to reduce fever, and by consulting with a doctor.
