Is the Zika Virus in the United States?

The Zika virus presents as a mild illness that is spread by mosquitoes. While most people will have a few symptoms like a fever, joint pain, rash and conjunctivitis. The symptoms can last up to a week. Many people do not have any symptoms. Even those that do have symptoms do not usually seek medical treatment because the symptoms are so mild.

Why Is the Zika Virus an Issue?

The reason why the Zika virus has garnered attention is because of the complications that it can cause to the fetus if a woman contracts the virus while pregnant. The baby may develop microcephaly and other brain defects that are quite serious. The long-term effects can be quite serious. Brazil has had a national health crisis as a result of numerous infants being born with these complications and experts are worried that it may spread throughout the world. Since many people do not realize that they may have contracted the virus, it can continue to be a problem, which makes screening important.

Is the Zika Virus in the United States?

While there have been cases of the Zika virus in the United States, the majority of them are contracted through travel. There are mosquito spread cases in Brownsville Texas and Miami-Dade County Florida. The Zika virus can be spread through the mosquito bite or semen. There are suggested travel restrictions to areas of known outbreaks if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant soon. At this point there are no known cases that are spread by mosquitoes inside of the United States.

Can the Zika Virus Spread Throughout the United States?

It can. The Zika virus is spread by the Aedes mosquitoes, which are found throughout the United States. This mosquito can spread other serious mosquito-borne illnesses including dengue fever. It is possible for a small outbreak to spread to multiple areas throughout the United States. The mosquitoes are spread throughout the United States, which is why the CDC continues to monitor the illnesses.

How Can I Protect Myself from the Zika Virus?

The best way to protect yourself is to avoid being bitten by a mosquito that carries the virus. Wearing mosquito repellent can help. If you are going to an area with a known outbreak, you need to be sure to wear mosquito repellent. Wearing long sleeves and paints can also help. You can also take additional steps to control the mosquito population around your yard including treating your yard for mosquitoes. A professional can treat you yard and protect your family from the Zika virus as well as other illnesses that are known throughout the United States including the West Nile virus and St. Louise encephalitis.