The Zika virus contains 10 proteins, but only two – called NS4A and NS4B – are linked to microcephaly, according to the researchers.
Advertisement
Florida health officials say there have been at least 25 local Zika infections.
A World Health Organization report released on Thursday also mentions Canada as the latest country to report a case of congenital malformation associated with a Zika infection.
Once a travel-related case is identified, public health officials and local mosquito control agencies are notified to take action to minimize the potential for local spread.
There have also been 441 cases of Zika that were brought to Florida by people who were infected while traveling outside the United States. They also stress the need for individual responsibility to reduce the impact of the Zika virus. Symptoms include fever, a rash, pain in the joints and muscles, red eyes and a headache. It is meant to promote an immune response that would protect against the mosquito-borne virus that can cause devastating birth defects, according to a statement from the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).
Zika is spread through bites of certain types of mosquitoes not known to be found in Wyoming.
A bill providing $1.1 billion was blocked by Democrats after Republicans attached language to stop abortion-provider Planned Parenthood from using that government funding for healthcare services, mainly in USA territories like Puerto Rico.
The CDC advises pregnant women not to travel to an area where active Zika transmission is ongoing, and to use insect repellent and wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts if they are in those areas. While most people who are infected only experience mild symptoms, the virus can cause the birth defect microcephaly, which results in babies born with undersized heads and underdeveloped brains. The discovery may be the first step in finding ways to prevent the birth defect, the researchers said.
Advertisement
Pregnant women who have recently traveled to an area with Zika should talk to a doctor or other healthcare provider about their travel even if they don’t feel sick. To protect yourself and your family from WNV, use effective mosquito repellents while outdoors when mosquitoes are active and eliminate standing water around your home.
