A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global public health emergency over the Zika virus.
Experts are worried that the virus is spreading far and fast with devastating consequences. It is in that same vein that the WHO alert placed Zika in the same category of concern as Ebola.
Here are seven things you should know about the Zika Virus:
1. The Zika virus derives its name from Uganda.
The Zika Virus was first isolated in Zika forest of Uganda in 1947
2. It is spread to people through mosquito bites.
Zika is transmitted by daytime Aedes mosquitoes
3. It can migrate through humans.
The Zika virus can be transferred through humans by sexual contact and also via the placenta, affecting an unborn foetus
4. It is a relatively mild disease of limited scope.
Only one in five people develop symptoms, with no fatality. These symptoms range from mild headaches, maculopapular rash, fever, malaise, conjunctivitis, and joint pains
5. There is no cure for Zika.
As of now, there is no vaccine or preventative drug available. Symptoms can be treated with rest, fluids, and paracetamol
6. Pregnant women and nursing mothers need to be careful.
Women with babies and children have been adviced to dress children in clothing that covers arms and legs. Also, they have been adviced to stay away from countries where Zika virus has been reported to avoid a case of microencephaly.
7. Avoid mosquito bites.
The CDC has adviced that environmental protection Agency (EPA)- registered repellents are to be used. Also, stay in places with air conditioning or that use windows and door screens to keep mosquito outside.
2. It is spread to people through mosquito bites.
Zika is transmitted by daytime Aedes mosquitoes
3. It can migrate through humans.
The Zika virus can be transferred through humans by sexual contact and also via the placenta, affecting an unborn foetus
4. It is a relatively mild disease of limited scope.
Only one in five people develop symptoms, with no fatality. These symptoms range from mild headaches, maculopapular rash, fever, malaise, conjunctivitis, and joint pains
5. There is no cure for Zika.
As of now, there is no vaccine or preventative drug available. Symptoms can be treated with rest, fluids, and paracetamol
6. Pregnant women and nursing mothers need to be careful.
Women with babies and children have been adviced to dress children in clothing that covers arms and legs. Also, they have been adviced to stay away from countries where Zika virus has been reported to avoid a case of microencephaly.
7. Avoid mosquito bites.
The CDC has adviced that environmental protection Agency (EPA)- registered repellents are to be used. Also, stay in places with air conditioning or that use windows and door screens to keep mosquito outside.
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