North Central Health District

Zika Virus

Posted February 8, 2016 by NCHD Admin

According to the Center for Disease Control, the Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.

If you plan on traveling to the areas that have been identified as having active cases of Zika virus, please remember to evaluate the risks and take precautions. CDC has issued travel notices to active Zika areas so travelers can stay informed of areas where Zika infection is a risk.

The outbreak in South America led to reports of pregnant women giving birth to babies with birth defects and poor pregnancy outcomes (CDC, 2016). Further research and analysis will be conducted in order to better understand how a fetus is affected and what we can do in the future to assist in prevention efforts.

 

 

Additional Information

• Georgia DPH – Zika FAQs
• Georgia DPH – Zika Information in English and Spanish
• CDC – Zika
• CDC – Zika and Pregnancy
• CDC – Zika Prevention
• EPA – Find the Right Insect Repellant