Zika virus 2016 update: Zika cases in Florida exceed 100, new cases in New York City, mosquito bite prevention critical to stop spread

Written by Dr. Victor Marchione
Published on


Zika virus updateZika virus cases in Florida have exceeded 100, new cases have been reported in New York City, so mosquito bite prevention is critical to stop the spread. So far the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 591 travel-associated cases of Zika virus in the U.S., with 121 in Florida and 127 in New York. There are no reports of locally-acquired Zika virus, meaning the American mosquitoes are not transmitting the virus, but new reports suggest that the Zika-infected mosquitoes may make their way to the southern states.

Four new Zika cases in Florida raising the statewide total above 100

Florida health officials have confirmed four new Zika virus cases, raising their total to 154 cases, which include 36 pregnant women. Florida is entering its rainy season, which could increase the risk of Aedes aegypti and aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the types of mosquitoes that transmit Zika virus.

Also, with the upcoming Brazil Olympic Games, international travel is on the rise, which can increase the number of infected people, thus bringing more cases into the U.S.

There is currently no vaccine against Zika virus, so mosquito bite prevention is the only method to reduce the risk of contracting Zika.

Here is a detailed chart of Zika virus cases across Florida as provided by the Florida Health Department.

County Number of Cases
Alachua 4
Brevard 3
Broward 17
Clay 2
Collier 1
Hillsborough 3
Lee 4
Martin 1
Miami-Dade 46
Orange 9
Osceola 5
Palm Beach 7
Pasco 1
Pinellas 4
Polk 3
Santa Rosa 1
Seminole 3
St. Johns 2
Volusia 2
Total cases (excluding pregnant women) 118
Cases of pregnant women regardless of symptoms* 36

Zika virus infects pregnant women in NYC

Eight-six New Yorkers have been confirmed with Zika virus, including 14 pregnant women. So far all patients have recovered, but it is unknown whether any impending birth defects may arise. Spokeswoman Carolina Rodriquez said, “We closely monitor pregnant women through the duration of their pregnancy.”

So far, cases of Zika virus in NYC have come from individuals visiting Zika-infested countries, primarily central and south America.

A state Health Department official added, “The Zika virus is a disease of significant public health concern, with the greatest concern being the risk to the exposed fetus.”

Avoid mosquito bites to prevent Zika

If you are planning on being outdoors, oils and scents have been shown to keep mosquitoes away. Whether you use candles or sprays, they can help reduce your risk. If you have sensitive skin, taking antihistamines days prior to being outdoors along with using a spray can reduce swelling and reaction to the bite.

Another easy way to minimize your risk of bites is to avoid certain locations. Woody, grassy, wet, and steamy areas attract more mosquitoes. Avoid traveling – or setting up a picnic – in these environments.

Some natural remedies to ease the itch are to apply lotions and creams or non-prescription hydrocortisone cream. Furthermore, a paste made with baking soda and water can help relieve the itchiness as well. Applying cool compresses to bites can reduce itching and, of course, if the reaction is more severe, antihistamines can reduce the reaction.

Lastly, if you have been bitten, do not scratch! It may be tempting, and you may think you’re getting some relief, but scratching will only cause more harm than good. Instead, opt for an over-the-counter after-bite solution or other natural soothing remedy.


Related Reading:

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Zika virus causes vision problems in babies

Zika virus has now been linked to vision problems in babies. Zika virus is already associated with microcephaly, which is a birth defect that causes abnormally small heads and brains in babies. Research has found that one-third of Brazilian babies with microcephaly also have vision problems as well, including ocular lesions, optic nerve abnormalities, and chorioretinal atrophy. Continue reading…


Sources:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/health-care/article79917292.html
http://nypost.com/2016/05/22/zika-virus-infects-dozens-of-pregnant-women-in-nyc/
//www.belmarrahealth.com/mosquito-bite-risk-prevented-with-simple-home-remedies/

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On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

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