The Zika virus is creeping into the U.S.
Although a blood test can diagnose the Zika virus, currently there is no treatment. Those infected can self treat with over-the-counter medicines, according to Knvul Sheikh at lifescience.com. (123RF.com)
With the virus spreading over 30 countries the World Health Organization (WHO) has made an emergency announcement that the virus Zika will affect people internationally. Zika is a virus that usually transfers from mosquito bites.
Zika was originated in the late 1940’s in Uganda, where the virus was first isolated. This disease is also related to the West Nile, causing mild headaches, fever or joint pain. That being just a few of the symptoms if feeling off seeking professional help is advised. For women who are already pregnant this disease can cause Microcephaly, which is where an unborn fetus is born with an abnormally small head with a normal sized body, also causing brain damage. Now even though not every case is connected to the Zika virus, there are still strong connections.
“We’ve confirmed that someone who didn’t travel has had Zika in the U.S.,” CDC director Dr. Thomas Frieden told NBC News. “And all of the information provided to us by Dallas makes it clear that it is likely sexual transmission.”
This is a transmission electron micrograph of the Zika virus. Particles are 40 nm in diameter with an outer envelope and dense inner core. (Cynthia Goldsmith/Creative Commons)
This virus has started moving its way across the globe entering the United State causing urgency to develop a vaccine as quickly as possible. Mosquitoes being the main transfer, Zika can also be transferred through blood and even sexually.
In Dallas on Wednesday Feb. 3, health officials have received their first case of Zika from a person who went to Venezuela contracting it and after having relations with a person passed it along.
“I think the Zika virus is scary,” Saddleback College student Sarah Palmer said. “I think the government will come up with a vaccine pretty quickly to protect the people.”
Although the virus has not affected people in Orange County, it has started making its way across the Mexican boarder. Warnings have been issued that more tropical places will be affected most. It is also advisable to not travel to places that have been hit the hardest.
Remembering that no matter where you live or travel it is always important to research what is happening in the city and to always be prepared in local cities and other countries.Saddleback’s Director of Student Health Services said the best way to find out information about the virus is by visiting the CDC website, most of the information will be there.
So in order to avoid being eaten by mosquitoes when traveling where the area is surrounded, have as little skin exposed as possible, stay in air-conditioned places, use bed nets and be sure to use repellent. When living in areas that bugs live in be sure to never let water puddles occur and most importantly practice safe sex. With the virus being able to pass through so easily it essential to stay covered in all areas.
B/W Photo used with CC BY 2.0
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