A rare tropical disease has reached epidemic status in Latin America and the Caribbean. Zika virus, which is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito, usually causes mild conditions, but now it is suspected to be behind a rare congenital malformation and other health problems. Here are some facts about the disease:
By MIKE STOBBE / AP
WHAT IS THE ZIKA?
Zika virus was first discovered in monkeys in Uganda in 1947; its name comes from the jungle where Zika was detected. He appeared in Brazil last year and has since been reported in many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
HOW IS IT SPREAD?
It is mainly transmitted through the bite of the same type of mosquito that can spread other tropical diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. But researchers are also detecting cases in which it is transmitted through sexual contact.
IS THERE SYMPTOMS?
Experts believe that most people infected do not get sick zika. And those who do have mild symptoms - fever, rash, joint pain and redness of the eyes - which rarely last more than a week. There is no specific treatment and no vaccine has been developed, unlike other tropical diseases that appear in periodic outbreaks.
WHY NOW IS A CONCERN?
There is growing evidence linking zika infection in pregnant women at birth of children with a rare congenital malformation called microcephaly, which causes the baby to be born with smaller than normal head and without the brain has developed properly. Officials are also investigating an increase in cases of a nerve condition called Guillain-Barre syndrome, which can cause paralysis, related zika.
You CAN STOP THE SPREAD?
People can protect themselves from bites with insect repellent and wearing clothes that cover arms and legs completely. Eliminating places where mosquitoes breed and other measures to control insect populations can help prevent the spread of the virus.
Is the US have been cases?
Yes. Last week, health officials said last year nearly 200 cases of zika were reported in 50 states - all in people who traveled to an affected country or who apparently contracted it after having sexual contact with tourists who had visited the area Recently. However, almost all infections detected 174 in Puerto Rico and two other US territories were caused by mosquito bites, authorities said. The insect that spreads the zika can be found in the southern states of the United States, so experts believe that the disease could also spread through the area. AP