The continuous increase of Zika-recorded cases in the U.S. starts to worry many residents. The latest addition to the number of confirmed Zika cases was in Virginia, where there have been 18 reported victims.
Due to the urgency of the threat, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a level 2 alert for those who will be traveling to areas where the occurrence of the Zika virus is still high. Level 2 alert means "practice with enhanced precautions."
According to WJLA, the 18 cases were located in different regions of the state. The highest number of cases reported in Virginia was in the central region, with the rest of the numbers spread almost evenly in other regions.
Other states that were affected by the Zika virus include D.C, where four recorded cases were known. In Maryland, 17 cases were recorded.
This rising number of Zika cases has prompted the World Health Organization to be more vigilant. NBC News reported that WHO issued guidelines for the practice of safe sex. Aside from this, it also recommended abstinence from sex for eight weeks. It can be recalled that previously, WHO recommended abstinence of four weeks.
This new WHO guideline was made after it was discovered that the virus lingers longer in the blood. If a male is found to be exhibiting Zika virus symptoms, it is best to abstain contact for a period of 6 months. This is considered the safest period.
At present, many U.S. states are looking at spraying infected areas with a mosquito repellent. The Department of Agriculture of Maryland is already looking at this option to combat Zika in the state.
The efforts being conducted by the government to arrest Zika are promising. Although there is no guarantee that Zika can be prevented from entering the U.S., these efforts can still greatly help in preventing its spread.
