Zika Virus: What You Need to Know

With warm weather on the horizon, we are all looking forward to the return of…mosquitoes. Unfortunately, this summer some of these pests will be harboring Zika virus, particularly in the southern coastal regions of the country. 

But don’t fret. For most people, the virus won’t be a big deal. You may not even notice if you happen to be infected by it. The symptoms are mild. Body aches, a low-grade fever, a headache, pink eye, or perhaps a mild rash for a few days. 

Zika is a big deal for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant though. Having the virus during pregnancy can cause a birth defect called microcephaly. Microcephaly is when the brain and skull of an infant does not form properly and in addition to the baby’s head being abnormally small, he or she may have also have developmental challenges.

Zika can be transmitted by being bitten by a mosquito with the virus, or by having unprotected sex with someone who has the virus. Right now, there is no vaccine or treatment for the virus, so the only option is to avoid mosquito bites and limit your sexual exposure.

Here are some tips for avoiding mosquito bites other than just staying indoors all summer:

Use insect repellent according to label instructions when outdoors.

Wear light-colored pants and shirts with long sleeves.

Wear clothing treated with permethrin (a spray that repels mosquitos).

Keep your home cool and use screens on any open doors or windows. 

MEN, if your wife or girlfriend may be pregnant or is trying to get pregnant, you need to diligently protect yourself from mosquito bites to protect her and  your unborn child from Zika.  If you know you've been bitten, you should use condoms or not have sex until after the birth of the child. NO exceptions!

LADIES, if your man may have been bitten by a mosquito, insist on using condoms or don't have sex this summer if you are pregnant. NO exceptions.