Zika Virus

ZIKA VIRUS

The ZIka Virus is a  disease that is spread to people primarily to people bitten by the Aedes species mosquito also known as the Asian Tiger Mosquito.

Most common symptoms are fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis (red eye).

The CDC have issued a travel warning after the explosion of the dangerous Zika Virus. Among the countries infected are:

Countries with Zika Virus

However, the DOH spokesperson, Dr. Lyndon Lee Suy, have announced that there are no reported cases in the Philippines except one in Cebu in 2012.  True or not, since hospitalization is not required for mild cases, we should all remain vigilant. 

Facts about the Zika Virus

1. First identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys.
2. Identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and United Republic of Tanzania.
3. Outbreaks are present in Africa, Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
4. Transmitted to people through an infected Aedes species mosquito- the same mosquitos that spread dengue and chikungunya viruses.
5. They lay eggs in standing water in things like buckets, tires, bowls, flower pots and vases.
6. They are aggressive biters who prefer to bite people in daytime.
7. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person already infected with the virus.

The Zika Virus and Pregnant Women

There is the rare possibility that the virus can be passed on the the newborn at the time of birth, but there are no reports that it can be passed on to the newborn child through breastfeeding.

It may cause a birth defect called microcephaly or babies being born with small heads and severe brain damage.

For women who travelled to a Zika infected region, Please click on this  link to a guideline from the CDC. 

Pregnant women are advised to consult their physicians with or without the Zika Symptoms.

Most Common Symptoms

1. Fever
2. Joint Pain
3. Rash
4. Conjunctivitis and Pain Behind the Eyes
5. Muscle and Joint Pain
6. Vomiting

The symptoms usually last for several days to a week.

DEATHS are RARE.

Treatment of the Zika Virus:

No vaccines and medications are available.

Plenty of rest and lots of fluids are advised.

Consult your physician.

• DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN AND NAPROXEN until Dengue is ruled out to reduce the risk of haemorrhage.

PREVENTION of the Zika Virus:

1. Use insect repellent, for my kids the most effective we've used so far is the OFF LOTION for KIDS.  There are other insect repellants such as deet, patches with deets, the wrist bands, citronella sprays...We sometimes use anti mosquito patches too.
2. Check and regularly clean standing waters in buckets, vases, old tires, etc.
3. We also find the Baygon Electric Mosquito Killer very effective, install some in your house and refill when needed.
4. Use light colored clothing and make sure you free space of clutter. Mosquitoes love to dwell in dark places.

Image captured from www.NPR.ORG, please visit the site for futher reading.