Zika Virus update Published March 14, 2016 By Staff Sgt. Chankrisna J. Chim 12th Aerospace Medicine Squadron, Public Health Flight Community Health NCOIC EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- What is Zika Virus and why is it the hot topic on the news? There has been an influx of Zika Virus cases originating from North, South and Central Americas. This virus, like other arboviruses (insect-carrying viruses), is transmitted from the bite of an infected mosquito (primarily Aedes aegypti for Zika). Persons who have been bitten by a Zika-infected mosquito may develop flu-like symptoms, such as fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eyes), muscle aches and/or headaches, within a few days to a week. Everyone is susceptible to the Zika virus and other mosquito-transmitting diseases, especially high risk populations (i.e. elderly, children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals). Why is this important to know? Presently, there is no vaccine or medication available to prevent or treat Zika infections, but presented symptoms are treatable. It is important to know that if you develop any of these signs and symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care facility to be evaluated and/or treated. As of March 1, the Zika virus has been found in 36 countries and territories but has not been reported in the Continental U.S. It is strongly discouraged that pregnant servicemembers, dependents and DOD civilian employees, travel to Zika-affected regions until completion of their pregnancy. Furthermore, recent reports suggest that this virus can be more commonly transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. Lastly, men who reside or traveled to an area of ongoing Zika Virus transmission, who have a pregnant partner, should abstain from sexual activity or consistently and correctly use condoms during sex with their partner throughout the duration of the pregnancy. Below are important guidelines to follow to prevent contracting Zika or any other insect-carrying diseases: 1. Mosquitoes are active during the hours of dusk and dawn 2. Wear long pants and long sleeved shirts to prevent being bitten 3. Use mosquito repellent with 20-25% DEET 4. Check for areas where there is standing water (i.e. empty tires, puddles, cans) and eliminate those areas by filling it up with dirt and/or empty the water 5. Ensure screens on your doors and windows do not contain holes where mosquitoes can get through Please contact Public Health at 661-277-2244 / 277-2270 if you notice an increase of mosquito activity, plan on traveling to another country where diseases are prevalent, or would like up-to-date information on diseases.