The Zika Virus has become a growing concern, especially with pregnant women. Those infected may give birth to babies with microcephaly, a disorder that leads to babies born with abnormally small heads and severe brain damage.
The New England Journal of Medicine, shows a staggering jump in the risk rate if a mother is infected with Zika in the first trimester.
Symptoms of the virus include muscle aches, a rash and pink eye or conjunctivitis.
Pregnant women should reach out to their doctors for more information, as not everyone knows if they’ve contracted the virus.
In adults the Zika Virus has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a neurological auto-immune disease that can cause paralysis and death.
Beware, the mosquito that carries Zika doesn’t travel very far during its lifetime. The species that carries Zika tend to live right around homes.
Prevent or avoid mosquito breeding. Health officials ask residents to remove or dump anything that holds standing water, including bird baths, old tires, gutters, potted plants and children’s toys.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect from mosquito bites.
Fun Fact Friday – Zika Virus