The Zika virus has been gaining widespread attention in recent weeks as news of the relatively mild virus with potentially disastrous effects for pregnant women has been reported across the globe.
According to a report from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, a recent outbreak of Zika in Brazil has appeared to correspond to an explosion of potential cases of microcephaly, a birth defect involving shrunken skulls and development impediments.
Although the Zika virus on its own is relatively harmless and has a very low death rate, the fact that it could be linked to birth defects has potential mothers reasonably worried. The good news for those in Pennsylvania and higher latitudes, is that the current mosquito that can transmit the virus mainly lives in southernmost parts of the United States, according to Dr. David Damsker, the director of the Bucks County Health Department.
Even if the disease does come north, Zika is still a problem for a pretty small percentage of the population, pregnant women. “Its still mostly an issue for pregnant women. It is not a deadly disease,” Damsker affirmed.
According to Damsker, there is currently no information that suggests the mosquitoes that can carry the disease can come north. Different insects, such as other types of mosquito would need to acquire the ability to transmit the disease for it to move north.
Even if the disease does come north, though, there are options to deal with the petulant mosquitoes, Damsker said. Options include testing for Zika in local mosquitoes and spraying appropriately, such as is done for the West Nile Virus.
The Pennsylvania health website has a comprehensive guide for information regarding the Zika virus. According to the State’s website, Zika’s symptoms include fever, rash, muscle and joint pain, headaches, and red eyes. In most cases, the virus clears itself up. Sometimes, according to the website, hospitalization is required.
The State also clarifies that the virus can be transmitted through mosquito bites and through sexual and blood contact. In rare cases, it can be transferred from mother to child.
The State suggests lots of rest and intake of fluids to combat the virus, as there are no medicines or vaccines currently available.
As of last week, there have been eight valid tests in Pennsylvania for the virus. So far, one came back negative and the rest are still pending.
Damsker and state officials said they will continue to monitor the Zika virus and its spread.
