With news about the Zika Virus traveling very fast, it is important not to panic. While all the headlines are making it seem like the Zika Virus is going to wipe out the human race, it is important to remember the following facts:
1. Zika is not Ebola.
In a recent article by the Boston Globe, experts weigh in on the effects of Zika. Ebola was a rapidly spreading and deadly disease. The World Health Organization waited too long to show that Ebola was dangerous so they are most likely just taking precaution with Zika as to not make that mistake again. While it is important to inform the public about the virus and what it entails, it shouldn't scare people away from living their everyday lives.
2. The symptoms of Zika are not deadly
If someone is affected with the Zika Virus they might be asymptomatic. This means that they might not even show or have the symptoms of the virus. The symptoms include a mild fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes. Symptoms usually last a few days to a week. The symptoms of Ebola are far more serious; severe headache, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and hemorrhaging (bleeding from oraces). The symptoms of Ebola can last 2 to 21 days and recovery depends on health care available to those infected.
3. Microcephaly is not directly linked to the virus
While there has been a surge in children with microcephaly in places like Brazil, it is not directly linked to the virus. Even experts are not 100 percent sure that Zika is what causes Microcephaly. Experts are leaning towards it being Zika combined with other infections but they still are not sure. Don't let the headlines fool you.
4. The virus doesn't seem to stay in the body
Since Zika is a viral infection, it doesn't seem to linger in the body infecting future children, experts say. The risk of the virus affecting future children is incredibly low. So if you are of child bearing age but do not intend to get pregnant until after you travel to any of the countries infected, you shouldn't worry.
5. There have only been 3 cases suggesting that it is transmitted through sex
The key word is 'suggesting'. Experts are saying that infection rarely happens this way. Proper forms of birth control and barrier contraception should still be used no matter what but the risk is still very low.
While it is still important to protect ourselves it is also important to not freak out about this virus because so much is still unknown. The WHO and the CDC are taking precautions and warning people about what could possibly happen. Check the news and read what experts are saying. Zika is not Ebola and should not be treated that way either.
