Zika Virus Spreads to U.S.
Zika, a mosquito-born virus, has been reported in U.S. residents. According to the National Institutes for Allergies and Infectious Diseases, there are currently 20 cases, all travelers returning from infected countries.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has issued a level 2 travel alert which calls for enhanced precautions.
The Zika virus has spread to 24 countries and has had particularly devastating results in Brazil. Nearly 4,000 babies have been born with microcephaly as a result of the virus. Babies with microcephaly are born with small heads and have abnormal brain development, 46 of these babies have died.
Infected countries including El Salvador, are urging women to avoid pregnancy for at least two years to help minimize the risk of Zika-related birth defects.
There is no vaccine or set treatment for the virus. Patients are given pain medication to help alleviate the symptoms. The CDC recommends the use of insect repellant, window and screen doors and as much protective clothing as possible.
Despite a lack of local virus transmission in the U.S., scientists suspect that returning travelers will increase the number of cases.
For a list of countries with Zika cases, click here.
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