Zika – A Permanent Threat?

With the return of warm weather and mosquitoes, the Zika virus is also sure to make a comeback in the United States.

Spread through the bite of a mosquito, Zika can cause fever, rash, headache, joint pain, conjunctivitis and muscle pain in those infected, and unborn children are at the highest risk. Zika – which can cause birth defects and encephalitis in unborn children – was found in pregnant woman in 44 states across America.

Last year 77 unborn children died in the womb due to Zika, and 51 others were born with Zika-related birth defects in the United States alone. Furthermore, a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that one in 10 pregnant women with Zika gave birth to a child with serious birth defects.

Zika may be a new reality during the spring and summer, and it’s likely not going away.

But what can be done? Is there a vaccine? Are there ways to prevent the spread of the virus? What should young mothers do and who is the most at risk?

There are many questions and much to learn. This is where the experts at Augusta University can help.

Dr. Jose Vazquez is an expert in the realm of infectious diseases. He studies and treats infectious diseases, including antibiotic-resistant superbugs and fungal infections. A leader in his field and a go-to expert for media regarding this topic, Dr. Vasquez is available to speak with media regarding the Zika virus. Click on his icon to arrange an interview.

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