The virus, which has swept through the Americas, has already been linked to microcephaly, a condition that leaves children with small skulls, but not to more widespread abnormalities. No reports indicate there is a case in Washington State in which Zika was sexually transmitted.
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And because this was a single case, it is not possible to estimate the risk of stillbirth among women who are exposed to the Zika virus during pregnancy, the researchers said.
None of the new cases confirmed in Miami-Dade and Orange counties on Thursday are among pregnant women, though state officials reported this week that at least three expectant mothers had contracted the Zika virus while traveling outside of the state.
Researchers don’t know the potential mechanism behind the link between this neurological damage and the Zika virus, he said.
The Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, the insect that also spreads the dengue and chikungunya viruses.
Mattos said the data analysis also confirmed the number of severe microcephaly cases increased starting in October or November of 2014.
The first laboratory-confirmed case of Zika in OR was announced February 10. “It is a disease brought from the areas where we recommended that people not travel”, explained Health Minister Svatopluk Nemecek.
“People who have been in Zika-affected areas in the previous two weeks and develop symptoms suggesting Zika should see their health care provider”.
WHO, together with partners, has developed technical guidance and training materials that can be used by countries to further strengthen their capacities to prepare and respond to Zika virus disease, microcephaly, and Guillain-Barre syndrome.
Its transmission to USA travelers in countries dealing with infections has been viewed inevitable.
There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. That’s because the type of mosquitoes that spread Zika don’t thrive in Canada, according to Dr. David Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health.
Most people infected with Zika virus do not exhibit symptoms.
“This case serves as a reminder that anyone traveling to Zika-affected parts of the world should be mindful of the health issues present in that region”, said Jim Murphy of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Communicable Disease Bureau.
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“Following the news that three pregnant women tested positive for the Zika virus after traveling to Latin America, we have requested additional antibody tests to ensure we keep a good supply of resources”, said Scott in a statement.
