Let’s Talk Health: What you need to know about the Zika virus

Every year, there is at least one viral infection that causes widespread panic. This time around, it’s the emergence of the Zika virus.

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness, transmitted by the same type of mosquito that carries the dengue and Chikungunya viruses. These mosquitoes are not native to California, but have been found in 12 different counties, including Madera and Fresno in the Valley. But to be clear, there is no evidence of Zika-carrying mosquitoes in California. So far, we’re in the clear.

However, according to the state’s department of public health, there have been six confirmed cases of Zika virus in California that were contracted when people traveled to countries where the virus is circulating.

The department of public health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued travel alerts for people going to regions with ongoing outbreaks. Among these places are Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, Mexico and the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.

The best way to protect oneself, experts say, is to avoid bug bites. You can try to do this by using insect repellant, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and emptying standing water – pretty much the same precautions you’re given to protect yourself from West Nile or any other mosquito-transmitted virus.

You can find hundreds of informational articles online. Here’s my attempt at summarizing what you need to know:

What are the symptoms of the Zika virus?

As explained by the CDC, most people infected with Zika virus will not develop symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they usually are in the form of a mild fever, rash and eye redness. Other symptoms can include muscle pains and headaches.

Should I be worried?

Zika virus has actually been around for more than 60 years. With earlier cases in Africa and Southeast Asia, the virus has been detected in more than 30 countries, most recently with an outbreak in the Americas. There have been other outbreaks, but not any of this scale. Experts believe the number of people affected has now surpassed 1 million. So, while this is of overall concern, if you take the recommended precautions and avoid mosquitoes, experts say you probably don’t have too much to worry about. But instructions to protect oneself should not be taken lightly.

“Although no one has contracted Zika virus in California, mosquito bites can still be harmful and the public should take steps to protect themselves,” Dr. Karen Smith, the state’s public health officer, said in a statement.

What is microcephaly and what does it have to do with Zika virus?

If you’ve read, seen or have heard anything about the Zika virus, odds are you also came across the word microcephaly – the birth defect being linked to the virus. Microcephaly is a lifelong condition in which a baby’s head is significantly smaller than normal. According to the CDC, there has been concern that Zika virus may be transferred from pregnant women to their unborn children, and that the virus may cause microcephaly. But this has not been confirmed.

Are there other ways Zika virus can be transmitted?

While there has been talk of the virus possibly spreading through saliva, as of now, the CDC has listed only the following forms of transmission: mosquito bites; mother to child; infected blood; and sexual contact.

Is there treatment for Zika virus?

There is no specific treatment available for the Zika virus. Health officials’ best recommendations are rest, fluids and fever relief. People who recently have returned from an affected country and experience any of the symptoms mentioned above are advised to contact their medical provider.

Ana B. Ibarra: 209-385-2486, aibarra@mercedsunstar.com, @ab_ibarra

This story was originally published February 5, 2016 at 5:59 PM with the headline "Let’s Talk Health: What you need to know about the Zika virus."