How Concerned should you be about the Zika Virus?
06-09-2016
Author: in RV Tips & Education
There has been a lot about Zika Virus in the news over the past few months, but recently there have been some changes regarding public health. There also seems to be some conflicting information regarding the virus. The bottom line, though, is should you be worried about the Zika virus? And if so, how much?
What is Zika Virus?
Zika is a virus that can be passed to humans by mosquitoes. It was first discovered in Africa, but in recent months has found its way to the United States. Most people who contract the Zika virus do not experience any symptoms but those who do usually only report having a low grade fever, headache, muscle pain, red eyes, and a rash. They may also feel unwell. The symptoms typically occur between two and seven days after being bitten by a mosquito that carries the virus.
How is Zika Virus Transmitted
The Zika virus is transmitted by a mosquito that is a carrier of the disease. Currently, only a specific species of mosquito, the aegypti mosquito (yellow fever mosquito), is the only type that carries it. However, some evidence has surfaced recently that suggests the albopictur (Asian tiger mosquito) may also have a role in how the virus is transmitted. What is concerning, though, is that the virus seems to be changing. Scientists have learned that it can also be transmitted via blood transfusions as well as through sexual contact.
Is Zika Virus Harmful?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Zika virus has been linked to the birth defect microencephaly. In Brazil and several other countries have reported a significant increase in the neurological disorder, Guillain-Barre syndrome which may cause paralysis and can be fatal. It is believed that there is a direct link between Zika virus and Guillain-Barre. Other neurological disorders are also being reported, but researchers are still studying to determine whether Zika virus may be the cause.
Zika Cases in the United States
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported 618 confirmed cases of Zika virus in the United States as of June 1, 2016. None of these cases have been contracted in the U.S., but are considered to be travel associated cases. While most of the cases are believed to be transmitted via mosquitoes, 11 were sexually transmitted. There is also one confirmed case of Guillain-Barre syndrome that has been linked to the virus.
The U.S. territories, however, are a different story. There have only been four cases related to travel, and 1,110 cases that were locally acquired. There are also 8 reported cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are not native to the United States, but there have been reports that the aegypti mosquito as well as the albopictur mosquito have been found in the states. Whether these mosquitoes are vectors for the disease has yet to be determined. Because many people do not experience any symptoms of the virus, there may be more cases that have not been reported.
How can I Protect Myself Against Zika?
The best way to protect yourself against Zika virus is to prevent mosquito bites. When you are outside, wear long pants and shirts with long sleeves. Insect repellent is also recommended. If you are camping or sleeping outside, use a bed net. If you have an infant, use a mosquito net on your infant carrier.
If you experience any of the symptoms of Zika, you should see your doctor. Zika is a reportable disease as it is a public health concern, so seeing your doctor helps the CDC and WHO keep accurate numbers on Zika cases. It can also help you stay ahead of complications that are associated with Zika.
What is Zika Virus?
Zika is a virus that can be passed to humans by mosquitoes. It was first discovered in Africa, but in recent months has found its way to the United States. Most people who contract the Zika virus do not experience any symptoms but those who do usually only report having a low grade fever, headache, muscle pain, red eyes, and a rash. They may also feel unwell. The symptoms typically occur between two and seven days after being bitten by a mosquito that carries the virus.
How is Zika Virus Transmitted
The Zika virus is transmitted by a mosquito that is a carrier of the disease. Currently, only a specific species of mosquito, the aegypti mosquito (yellow fever mosquito), is the only type that carries it. However, some evidence has surfaced recently that suggests the albopictur (Asian tiger mosquito) may also have a role in how the virus is transmitted. What is concerning, though, is that the virus seems to be changing. Scientists have learned that it can also be transmitted via blood transfusions as well as through sexual contact.
Is Zika Virus Harmful?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Zika virus has been linked to the birth defect microencephaly. In Brazil and several other countries have reported a significant increase in the neurological disorder, Guillain-Barre syndrome which may cause paralysis and can be fatal. It is believed that there is a direct link between Zika virus and Guillain-Barre. Other neurological disorders are also being reported, but researchers are still studying to determine whether Zika virus may be the cause.
Zika Cases in the United States
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported 618 confirmed cases of Zika virus in the United States as of June 1, 2016. None of these cases have been contracted in the U.S., but are considered to be travel associated cases. While most of the cases are believed to be transmitted via mosquitoes, 11 were sexually transmitted. There is also one confirmed case of Guillain-Barre syndrome that has been linked to the virus.
The U.S. territories, however, are a different story. There have only been four cases related to travel, and 1,110 cases that were locally acquired. There are also 8 reported cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The mosquitoes that carry Zika virus are not native to the United States, but there have been reports that the aegypti mosquito as well as the albopictur mosquito have been found in the states. Whether these mosquitoes are vectors for the disease has yet to be determined. Because many people do not experience any symptoms of the virus, there may be more cases that have not been reported.
How can I Protect Myself Against Zika?
The best way to protect yourself against Zika virus is to prevent mosquito bites. When you are outside, wear long pants and shirts with long sleeves. Insect repellent is also recommended. If you are camping or sleeping outside, use a bed net. If you have an infant, use a mosquito net on your infant carrier.
If you experience any of the symptoms of Zika, you should see your doctor. Zika is a reportable disease as it is a public health concern, so seeing your doctor helps the CDC and WHO keep accurate numbers on Zika cases. It can also help you stay ahead of complications that are associated with Zika.
Related Reads:
RV Pest Control: DIY Pest Control
RV Pest Control: Signs you might have a Pest Problem
How to Control Mosquitoes at your Campsite
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Author: Stephanie A. Mayberry
