Mosquitoes: From Dengue to Zika
Posted on March 1, 2016 by bob in Health, In Every Life, NewsUCanUse
“Women of childbearing age are advised to be informed of areas of known Zika virus,
and potential risks when they consider travel.”
On Feb. 1, 2016 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Zika virus to be a public health emergency.
First identified in humans in 1952 as a mosquito-spread virus, Zika has occurred in Africa, Asia, 
Europe, Central and South America and in US travelers returning from a Zika area. Spread occurs when a mosquito bites an individual who has the virus, then bites another person. The virus can also be spread through sexual contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of the disease occur a few days following exposure to the bite of the infected mosquito, and may include a mild fever, skin rash, conjunctivitis (reddened eyes), muscle or joint pain, fatigue and/or headache lasting for a few days to a week. These symptoms are similar to other viruses such as dengue, West Nile, chikungunya or yellow fever. More tracking of disease-spread and the symptoms of those diagnosed may be reveal a link to some neurological or immunity complications, such as Guillain-Barre Syndrome. A high risk may exist for transmission to an infant during pregnancy, and researchers are looking for a link to microcephaly (head smaller than normal due to decreased brain development) or other infant malformations. Women of childbearing age are advised to be informed of areas of known Zika virus and potential risks when they consider travel. Additionally, those who are young, older, or sick may respond more severely to the infection.
Although recommendations have been made to develop vaccinations and treatments for the Zika virus, as of this writing there is currently no specific treatment or vaccine. Awareness of possible infection and early identification are suggested. Diagnosis occurs from testing blood samples.
Methods to protect against mosquito bites are the best prevention. Our area of Central Alabama is known for mosquitos breeding, with its many areas of standing water. As the weather warms and spring rains occur, vigilance is important to decrease areas of mosquito breeding:
— empty or cover items that can hold water such as flower pots, pails or buckets;
— hose birdbaths or puddles to remove insects from breeding in still water;
— spray or treat areas with insecticides recommended by the WHO to reduce the number of mosquitoes
Additionally, exposure to mosquito bites can be reduced by wearing light colored clothing with long sleeves and legs to serve as a barrier. Mosquito repellants that can be sprayed on clothing or exposed skin further reduce risk. Keeping doors, windows, and screens closed can reduce entry into vehicles or homes.
Be alert to early symptoms and especially be mindful of those at higher risk. Current treatment recommendations include rest, drinking plenty of water, and managing fever and pain.
Updates and travel information can be obtained from the WHO website, http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2016/1st-emergency-committee-zika/en/.
Arlene H. Morris, EdD, RN, CNE is Professor of Nursing, Auburn Montgomery School of Nursing. Reach her at amorris@aum.edu.
