The Zika virus outbreak continually spread all throughout Latin America putting pregnant women in danger. World Health Organization already declared a "global health emergency" and has advised not to travel to the affected areas.
Two islands off the coast of Venezuela have recently been added to the Zika case watch list, ABC News' reported. Aruba and Bonaire were added to the travel advisory list; as of the latest update, 32 countries area already on the list. Center for Disease Control and Prevention cautions pregnant women not to travel to the countries that are affected by the outbreak.
The Zika virus is one of the causes of microcephaly, wherein babies are born with a small head and brains. As of this date, the virus already reached places as far as China. Two new cities are added to the watch list of the areas affected by the Zika Outbreak.
The virus is transmitted through mosquito bites. The mosquito species affected by the virus is known as Aedes aegypti which is the same as the ones carrying dengue. The first county to declare the outbreak was Brazil as the country was hit by the virus last May.
The infections do not usually have symptoms, but being infected with the Zika virus may include fever, joint pains, itching, rash, headache, eye and muscle pain, and red eyes, according to BBC. The infection can be relieved by an over the counter paracetamol. It is important to keep one's self-hydrated while recovering from the virus. It is important to prevent mosquito bites once you are infected, as the virus can easily spread.
As per the US Centers for Disease control, it is important for women in the affected areas to talk to their doctors before trying to get pregnant. "Talk to your doctor about your plans to become pregnant and the risk of Zika virus infection [and] strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during your trip."
