Fun Fact Friday – Zika Virus
- The Zika Virus is spread through mosquito bites.
- The illness is mild with symptoms often lasting less than a week.
- Approximately one in five people infected with the virus show symptoms.
- Currently, no vaccine or specific treatment exists for the disease.
- The most common symptoms related to the Zika virus disease are joint pain, redness of the eyes, rash, extreme fatigue, nausea and fever.
- Scientists are investigating the possible link between the Zika Virus and Microcephaly, a condition in which babies are born with abnormally small heads and brains that have not developed properly.
- Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and includes rest, plenty of fluids for re-hydration, and medications for fever and pain.
- Much of the effort against the illness focuses on protecting people from mosquitoes and reducing mosquito populations.