The Zika Virus
By Quaid Werklund
Symptoms
Most of the time people won't have any symptoms, but if there are symptoms they are fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes, muscle pain and headaches. The symptoms are normally mild but last several days up to a week. Most people don't get sick enough to notice they have it and do not go to a Hospital.
Treatments
The best thing to do is get lots of rest, drink lots of fluids, take medicine such as Tylenol paracetamol. Do not take aspirin, until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding. If you do have Zika, prevent mosquito bites for the first week of your illness. If you do get bit it will travel from one mosquito until it bites its next victim.
Prevention
Currently there is no vaccine for the virus, so you must avoid mosquitoes at all costs. Wear long-sleeve shirts and pants, stay in air conditioned, window, and screened in areas to keep all mosquitoes out. Use insect repellent and always re apply, do not spray area under clothes, if using sunscreen apply before repellent.
For Adults and Pregnant females
If you are in an intimate relationship even if you "clipped", wear a condom. The Zika virus can be transmitted through intercourse. And if you've been in an area with The Zika virus, and are pregnant go to the doctor anyway even if you don't feel sick.