The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued an alert for travel to countries and
regions experiencing Zika virus outbreaks.
Some of these
countries include Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Guatemala, Puerto Rico,
Venezuela, Thailand and the Philippines. (View the full list here.)
Recent reports from
Brazil indicate that the virus, which is spread to humans through mosquito
bites, is responsible for a birth defect that causes babies to
have abnormally small heads. Expectant mothers infected with Zika virus
while pregnant have given birth to infants with microcephaly, a condition
defined by abnormal cerebrums and improperly developed brains, WSBTV reports.
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| Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
The CDC advises
all travelers to countries where the virus is ongoing to take
precautions to avoid mosquito bites: wearing long sleeves and pants,
using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets. The
organization also recommends the following precautions specifically for
pregnant women:
Consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. Pregnant women who do travel to one of these areas should talk to their doctor or other healthcare provider first and strictly follow steps to avoid mosquito bites during the trip. Women trying to become pregnant, or who are thinking about becoming pregnant should consult with their healthcare provider before traveling to these areas.
The Zika virus has
been linked to one U.S. case of the birth defect, according to the Hawaii
State Department of Health. At this time, there is no medication to
prevent or treat Zika.
Areas with Zika, click HERE.
For more information regarding this topic, please visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website HERE.
