Arkansan tests positive for Zika virus
by January 26, 2016 2:03 pm 140 views
An Arkansan has tested positive for the Zika virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Monday.
The resident had traveled out of the country and contracted a mild case of the disease, according to a press release from the Arkansas Department of Health.
Contracted by mosquito bites, the virus first appeared in Brazil in May 2015 and has spread to 20 countries in the Western Hemisphere. Many victims experience no symptoms or mild symptoms including fever, rash, joint pain and red, itchy eyes. However, pregnant women who contract the virus can give birth to children with serious defects. There is no vaccine or treatment.
In the Department of Health press release, Dr. Nate Smith, Arkansas Department of Health director and state health officer, said mosquitoes in Arkansas can carry the Zika virus and can become infected if they bite a person with the disease.
He said pregnant Arkansans considering a trip to Central or South America or the Caribbean should consider postponing their trip, and anyone who returns from traveling to those countries should avoid mosquito bites for 10 days after they return. Travelers to those areas should visit a doctor if they experience Zika-related symptoms.