CDC Reports 279 Pregnant Women in the U.S. Infected with Zika Virus

As of May 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that 279 pregnant women in the United States have contracted the Zika virus. This number includes 157 women from the mainland U.S. and 122 from U.S. territories. The alarming rise in Zika cases has garnered increased attention, particularly as Brazil faces a significant outbreak linked to a surge in infants born with microcephaly and other serious fetal brain defects.

Understanding Microcephaly

Microcephaly is a serious condition where a baby’s head is abnormally small due to incomplete brain development during pregnancy or after birth. This condition can lead to various complications, including visual impairments, hearing loss, and stunted growth in affected infants. Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a leading expert at the CDC’s birth defects branch, explained to CNN that it remains uncertain how many babies may be affected by brain abnormalities due to the Zika infections among pregnant women.

Transmission of the Zika Virus

The Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Pregnant women can also contract the virus through sexual contact with male partners who have traveled to regions where the virus is prevalent. Notably, there have been no reported cases of transmission through mosquito bites within the U.S. itself; rather, cases have occurred in individuals who traveled to infected countries or through sexual contact.

Symptoms and Precautions

While fatalities from Zika are rare, the virus can cause mild symptoms, including fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. These symptoms are often so mild that many individuals do not seek medical attention, complicating efforts to monitor the spread of the virus. It’s crucial to remember that there is still much to learn about Zika and its long-term effects. To minimize the risk of infection, experts recommend avoiding travel to areas experiencing Zika outbreaks, particularly in South America and Africa.

CDC Recommendations for Zika Prevention

In response to the growing awareness of Zika, the CDC offers comprehensive guidance. Here are some key recommendations to follow when in areas affected by Zika:

Use EPA-registered insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. These repellents are safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women when applied according to label instructions.
Always follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as directed.
Avoid applying repellent on skin under clothing.
If using sunscreen, apply it before the insect repellent.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce skin exposure.
Seek accommodations with air conditioning and screened windows or doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Sleep under a mosquito net if you’re abroad or in open areas where mosquito bites are a concern.

Protecting Infants from Mosquito Bites

To protect infants from mosquito bites:

Do not apply insect repellent on babies younger than two months.
Avoid using products with oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children under three years old.
Dress children in protective clothing that covers their arms and legs.
Cover cribs, strollers, and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
Adults should apply insect repellent to their hands first and then carefully apply it to a child’s face.

Staying Informed

While it can be unsettling to hear about Zika cases in the U.S., staying informed and taking precautions is our best defense. For further insights on related topics, check out our post on home insemination options at this link. Additionally, if you’re considering at-home insemination, you can find reputable options at Cryobaby for syringe kits. For more detailed information about pregnancy and home insemination, visit Johns Hopkins.

Conclusion

In summary, vigilance and knowledge are key in navigating the complexities of Zika virus infections among pregnant women. By following preventive measures and staying informed, we can better protect ourselves and our families.