Zika Virus Press Release

Zika Virus Press Release

February 5, 2016

Contact: Cynthia Bodendein

The Sauk County Health Department is encouraging people who travel to the Southern United States, South or Central America, the Caribbean, Mexico or the Pacific Islands to be aware of the transmission of Zika Virus.   Zika virus is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes can live indoors and will bite at any time, day or night. Pregnant women should be especially cautious if traveling to these areas. Zika virus can be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her unborn baby anytime during pregnancy. Studies are under way to investigate the association of Zika virus infection and microcephaly (small head/ brain).

 Signs and symptoms include:

• Fever

• rash,

• joint pain, 

• or conjunctivitis (red eyes).  

• Other symptoms include muscle pain and headache. 

• The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week 

See your healthcare provider if you develop the symptoms described above and have visited an area where Zika is found. There is no vaccine to prevent or specific medicine to treat Zika infections.

• Treat the symptoms: 

  • Get plenty of rest.

  • Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.

  • Take medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) to relieve fever and pain.

  • Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

  • If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

 Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites when you travel. Pregnant woman should reconsider travel plans and/ or strictly follow the steps below to avoid mosquito bites

• Choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors.

• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside or in a room that is not well screened.

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

• Mosquitoes may bite through thin clothing

• Consider bringing insect repellent with you.

• Reapply insect repellent every few hours.

   

  If you have any questions or would like more information on the Zika virus please contact Sauk County Health Department at www.co.sauk.wi.us or cdc.gov