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1. What is Zika Virus and how does it spread?

Zika is mosquito-borne flavivirus transmitted primarily to people by the bite of an infected mosquito from the species, Aedes aegypti.

Zika, first identified in 1947 in Uganda, has just recently made its way from Africa and Southeast Asia to the America’s.

2. Is Zika Virus in Madison County?

No. The species of mosquito currently associated with the spread of the Zika virus is not found in Madison County.

However, residents traveling to places currently affected by the Zikia virus should consider either avoiding travel to those areas or take strict precautions to prevent mosquito bites to prevent infection. View a map of current Zika affected areas.

3. What is the key health concern about Zika virus infection?

Zika virus infection has been linked to serious birth defects and other poor pregnancy outcomes in babies of mothers infected with Zika virus while pregnant. Zika can be transmitted from an infected pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. More studies are planned to examine this risk. Until more is known and out of an abundance of caution, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued the recommendation for pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant to consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

4. Can Zika infection be prevented?

Yes. 

• Avoid travel to Zika affected areas. View a map of current Zika affected areas.
• Prevent mosquito bites while visiting Zika affected areas. 

Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite both indoors and outdoors, mostly during the daytime, requiring protection from mosquitoes throughout the entire day.

Mosquito prevention strategies include:

• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Using U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered insect repellents (when used as directed on the product label, insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, and IR3535 are safe for pregnant women).
• Using permethrin-treated clothing and gear.
• Staying and sleeping in screened-in or air-conditioned rooms.

5. What are symptoms of Zika virus infection?

The most common symptoms of Zika virus infection are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Symptoms typically begin 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Residents that traveled recently and experience symptoms common of Zika infection should go to their healthcare provider.

About 1 in 5 people infected with Zika will get sick. For people who get sick, the illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected. Severe disease is uncommon.

6. Where can I learn more?

For more information on Zika, visit the:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevent (CDC) website on Zika virus.
• New York State Department of Health website on Zika virus.