The Zika virus, spread to humans through mosquito bites, has been around for more than 60 years, but until recently you probably have never heard of it. That’s because the virus was not only restricted to certain areas, but also not seen as a threat.
Then, in May 2015, Zika was found for the first time in the Western hemisphere, more specifically, in Brazil. More than one million people were infected with the virus and the outbreak rapidly changed our thinking. Zika evolved from something thought to be harmless to something posing a serious threat.
Fast forward to today and it seems Zika is all over the news. The CDC recently issued travel warnings related to the virus, and days ago the first sexually transmitted case of Zika was found in Texas. The case further increases concerns about the virus, because it was thought only to be able to spread through mosquitos.
On February 1st 2016, the World Health Organization declared the spread of the virus and the rise in cases of microcephaly associated with it a public health emergency of international concern. However, reports suggest that Americans shouldn’t start panicking just yet.
US cases have been found in those returning from Zika-affected locations, but no cases in the US have been caused by local mosquito populations. However, experts say the virus will spread to the US and every other country where Aedes mosquitoes, the species that the virus, are known to inhabit. It’s just a matter of time. Most likely, local transmission will be later this year in the southern US. There will be an increased risk in the spring and summer due to mosquito activity.
Thankfully, the virus is not a dangerous threat to most people. If you are infected, the virus is mild and can be treated with typical pain and fever medication and by staying hydrated. However, if symptoms worsen, medical attention should be sought. The real threat is for women who are pregnant, due to the possibility of transmitting the virus to their unborn fetus.
Right now Americans shouldn’t be alarmed, but we also shouldn’t be naïve. It’s very possible that we’ll see an outbreak of Zika in the US like we’ve seen elsewhere.
