ZIKA VIRUS

dave3974
dave3974: A virus transmitted by mosquitoes is being closely watched by health officials as they investigate if an increase of birth defects in Brazil is linked to the pathogen, known as the Zika virus. It has now been stated that the virus could spread to most of the world and can also be spread by sexual contact.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expected to issue travel recommendations today or Saturday over concerns about the Zika virus and its effects on pregnant women.

The mosquito-borne illness usually results in mild symptoms including a fever, joint pain and rash, but Brazilian health officials are now investigating if it has also caused a rash of birth defects that left infants with misshapen heads, according to the CDC.

Here's a rundown of important information about the Zika virus and how it is spread.

What Are the Symptoms of the Zika Virus?

The common symptoms of the Zika virus include fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis, according to the CDC. Approximately one in five people infected with the virus shows symptoms. Severe complications from the virus that require hospitalization are rare and most people are over the worst of the symptoms after a week, according to the CDC.

Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, said when the virus was first discovered, it appeared similar to other mosquito-transmitted illnesses, such as Chikungunya and dengue fever.

"You had aches and pains in joints and muscles, and a bit more frequently than the others you would get a rash," Schaffner explained. "It was an annoyance."
8 years ago Report
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struanrobertson02
struanrobertson02: I'm not Brazilian. Thank you.
8 years ago Report
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dave3974
dave3974: no problem it is coming your way
8 years ago Report
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struanrobertson02
struanrobertson02: Nope. No mosquitos in my room.
8 years ago Report
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