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The virus has been implicated in an increased risk
of the baby being born with microcephaly, other birth
defects or neurological conditions. Microcephaly is a birth
defect in which the baby is born with a head that is smaller
than normal. There have also been rare cases of the
development of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). GBS is a
rapid-onset muscle weakness that is progressive and can
cause death.
There is no current medication or vaccine to prevent
being infected. The symptoms are treated like the symptoms
of any other viral illness; with drinking plenty of fluids,
resting, and taking acetaminophen for joint pain or fever.
So, how do we go on with life, but still maintain
vigilance to protect ourselves and others? The recommended
precautions are ultimately to protect pregnant women, women
who could be, or are considering becoming pregnant, and men
who could pass on the virus through sexual contact with
those women.
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Pregnant women should avoid or postpone travel to areas
where there is active transmission of the Zika virus:
-An area north of downtown
Miami, Florida (the CDC has never issued a travel warning
for the United States)
-Cape Verde
-Mexico
-Caribbean, including
Puerto Rico
-Central America
-The Pacific Islands
-South America
* Men who have traveled to Zika-active areas
should either abstain from sex or use condoms with a
pregnant partner for the remained of the pregnancy. It is
not known how long the virus can be transmitted through
sexual contact, but it may be six months or longer.
* Protect skin by using DEET insect repellents.
Make sure the repellent is EPA-registered; this is listed on
the product label. EPA-registered repellents are safe for
pregnant women and for children. Also protect skin by
wearing long sleeves, long pants; and by using nets over
beds when sleeping.
* People who are already ill with confirmed or
suspected Zika infections should stay indoors to avoid
further mosquito bites for the first seven days of the
illness to prevent local spreading of the disease. Likewise,
people who have traveled to active Zika areas should also
stay indoors to avoid mosquito bites for three weeks. They
should also not donate blood for 30 days upon their return.
* Remove standing water from your property to
avoid attracting mosquitos.
If you have viral symptoms, or if you or your partner
has traveled to any of the active areas, contact you primary
care provider or county health department for a blood or
urine test as some as possible.
Dianne Pettis, CRNP
Family Nurse Practitioner
724-375-7519
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