As of May 12, a total of 279 pregnant women across the United States have been diagnosed with the Zika virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This figure breaks down to 157 expectant mothers in the mainland U.S. and 122 in U.S. territories.
The Zika virus has gained attention recently due to Brazil’s significant outbreak, which has coincided with an alarming rise in cases of microcephaly and other serious brain defects in newborns. Microcephaly is a condition characterized by a smaller-than-normal head size in infants, resulting from incomplete brain development during pregnancy or shortly after birth. The consequences of Zika can also extend to eye defects, hearing loss, and growth impairments in affected children.
Dr. Emily Thompson, a leading expert in the CDC’s birth defects division, spoke with CNN about the uncertainty surrounding how many babies born to these mothers will experience brain defects. The Zika virus is primarily transmitted through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes, but pregnant women may also contract the virus through sexual contact with a male partner who has traveled to areas with known Zika transmission. Notably, there have been no reported cases of Zika transmission through mosquito bites within the continental U.S. to date; rather, individuals have contracted it while traveling abroad or through sexual contact.
While Zika is rarely fatal, its symptoms—such as fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes—are typically mild, which can complicate efforts to track infection rates. It’s essential to recognize that there is still much to learn about Zika and its implications. To reduce the risk of infection, the CDC recommends avoiding travel to regions currently experiencing Zika outbreaks, including parts of South America and Africa.
Precautions for Those in Zika-Affected Areas
For those in Zika-affected areas, the CDC suggests the following precautions:
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents with ingredients such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. These repellents are deemed safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women, when used as directed.
- Follow the instructions on the product label carefully and reapply as recommended.
- Avoid spraying repellent on skin beneath clothing.
- If using sunscreen, apply it before the insect repellent.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Stay in accommodations with air conditioning and screened windows and doors to keep mosquitoes at bay.
- If outdoors or in areas without protection, sleep under a mosquito bed net.
Precautions for Children
For children, it is crucial to:
- Avoid using insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months.
- Refrain from using products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children under 3.
- Dress children in long-sleeved clothing.
- Use mosquito netting to cover cribs, strollers, and baby carriers.
- Adults should apply repellent to their hands first, then gently apply it to a child’s face.
While Zika cases in the U.S. can be alarming, staying informed and taking protective measures is the best strategy. For more information about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from Resolve, and explore additional guidance on this topic at Make a Mom.
In summary, the CDC’s findings highlight the ongoing concerns about Zika virus transmission among pregnant women. By taking appropriate precautions and staying updated, individuals can work towards minimizing risks associated with this virus.