Zika Virus is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters. They can also bite at night.
Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a birth defect of the brain called microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. Other problems have been detected among fetuses and infants infected with Zika Virus before birth, such as defects of the eye, hearing deficits, and impaired growth. There have also been increased reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome, an uncommon sickness of the nervous system, in areas affected by Zika.
There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika Virus.
Many people infected with Zika Virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. The most common symptoms are:
- Fever
- Rash
- Joint pain
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
- Muscle pain
- Headache
Symptoms can last for several days to a week. People usually don’t get sick enough to go to the hospital, and they very rarely die of Zika Virus. Once a person has been infected with Zika Virus, they are likely to be protected from future infections.
The best way to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes is to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites. Wear Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Treat your clothing and gear with permethrin or buy pre-treated items. Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents.
Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home. Mosquito netting can be used to cover babies younger than 2 months old in carriers, strollers, or cribs. Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air conditioned or screened rooms are not available or if sleeping outdoors.
If you have persistent red eyes, you may want to visit us for a consultation at Malaya Optical