Learn Everything You Need To Know About The Zika Virus
By BIANCA FLAMINGO
Staff Writer
The Zika virus is primarily spread to people through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti species mosquito. Zika is not a new virus; however, it was not until May of 2015 when the first alert regarding the virus was released in Brazil.
The first Zika confirmed alert focused on pregnant women who carried the virus. Since then, the virus was reported in several different countries and territories. According to the Florida department of Health (FDOH), the local transmissions have been reported in Puerto Rico, but not elsewhere in the United State.
Despite Zika not being present in Florida, Lynn’s international student and community should be careful because they are constantly traveling to their respective countries and coming back in the United States.
“As a prevention wear long sleeve, use bug spray, and use protection because it may be sexually transmitted,” said Rita Albert, the Director of the Health Center on campus.
Only one out of five people that are infected by the virus will become symptomatic. According to Albert, “The Zika Virus symptoms are just like the symptoms of a cold.”
The signs may include: acute onset of low-grade fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis that is a reddening of eye, body aches, headache, eye pain, and vomiting. There is no specific treatment for the virus but with proper treatment the illness can be cured within a week.
The Health Center at Lynn has its doors open for any students who may have questions on the virus or who might have similar symptoms. In case one presents any symptoms that can be related to the Zika virus, do not hesitate to visit the Health Center, located next to the EML Residence Hall.
