With Zika virus on the rise, there is more information coming out about the dangers of Zika virus and pregnancy.
What is the Zika virus
The Zika virus is a disease carried by Aedes mosquitoes. Their bites can cause several minor issues. However, it is more dangerous to pregnant women, and their unborn children. A few of the symptoms of the Zika virus are: joint pain, rashes, muscle pain, red eyes, headaches and fever.
Some symptoms can be confused as allergies, the common cold, or even the flu. Due to this, most people don’t end up seeking the proper treatment. The virus has been shown to cause birth defects and microcephaly (a smaller than usual head). Some end up suffering from brain damage as well.
As far as doctors can tell, after the virus has run its course, there shouldn’t be any complications with future pregnancies. Unfortunately if you are already pregnant and then get the virus, complications can arise.
How the Zika virus is spread and other factors with the Zika Virus and Pregnancy
The Zika virus disease comes from a carrier mosquito that is infected with the Zika virus already. The Zika virus is most commonly found in Europe and South America, however it has also been reported in every continental state except Idaho, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Several countries are urging people to avoid pregnancy for at least the next few years to avoid any issues and complications.
The Zika virus can be spread through an infected mosquito bite, and then transferred via sexual contact, as well as blood transfusions. Then the virus is spread from the pregnant mother to the unborn child.
Prevention tips for the Zika virus
There are a few things that you can do to help prevent the Zika virus. You should avoid having sexual contact with anyone if you have recently been to one of the problem countries, or with someone who was in a country with a prevalent Zika issue. Also avoid giving blood if you have visited or are in any of these countries.
If you are going to be in these areas be sure to wear EPA-registered insect repellent. Wearing long sleeves and pants can also help keep you from being bit as well. If you are camping outdoors be sure to cover yourself with bug nets. These are especially important with the Zika Virus and pregnancy.
A few tips to prevent mosquitoes around your home
Another way to protect yourself from the Zika virus is to prevent mosquitoes from being around your home in general. The best way to do this is going to be to eliminate all standing water or at least make sure it doesn’t become stagnant.
You can do things like cleaning gutters, emptying kiddy pools, emptying flower pots, and changing water in things like birdbaths and outdoor pet dishes, as well as proper pool cleaning and maintenance.
Take these prevention steps to help protect you and your family from the Zika virus this mosquito season. If you already have a mosquito issue around your home, definitely contact a pest control service like Rove Pest Control to help keep your family safe around your home.
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