CDC Reports 279 Pregnant Women in the U.S. Infected with Zika Virus

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As of May 12, the CDC has reported that 279 expectant mothers across the United States have contracted the Zika virus. This figure includes 157 women from the states and an additional 122 from U.S. territories. The Zika virus has been making headlines, particularly as Brazil grapples with a significant outbreak and a rise in the number of infants born with microcephaly and other serious brain abnormalities. Microcephaly refers to a condition where a baby’s head is notably smaller than normal, resulting from incomplete brain development during pregnancy or shortly after birth. The virus can also lead to various other issues like eye defects, hearing impairment, and growth delays in affected infants.

Dr. Margaret Honein, a leading expert at the CDC’s birth defects branch, shared with CNN that it remains uncertain how many babies will experience brain defects due to maternal Zika infections. The Zika virus spreads primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, but pregnant women can also contract it through sexual contact with male partners who have traveled to regions where the virus is prevalent. So far, there have been no reported instances of Zika transmission from mosquitoes within the U.S. itself; cases have primarily stemmed from international travel or sexual activity.

While Zika is rarely fatal, its symptoms—such as fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes—are typically mild, leading many people to avoid seeking medical care. This makes tracking the virus’s spread quite challenging. It’s crucial to remember that research on Zika is ongoing, and many aspects of the virus and its effects are still not fully understood. However, there are several precautionary measures individuals can take to reduce their risk of infection, such as steering clear of areas currently battling Zika outbreaks, including parts of South America and Africa.

The CDC provides a wealth of valuable information on Zika, which you can access here. Below are some guidelines for those in Zika-affected regions:

• Utilize Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents, which may contain active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol. These repellents have been deemed safe and effective even for pregnant and breastfeeding women when used as directed.
• Always follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as necessary.
• Avoid spraying repellent on skin that is covered by clothing.
• If using sunscreen, apply it prior to your insect repellent.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Seek shelter in air-conditioned spaces or places with window and door screens to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• If you’re outdoors or traveling abroad, sleep under a mosquito bed net.

For protecting your little ones from mosquito bites:

• Refrain from using insect repellent on babies younger than 2 months.
• Avoid products with oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol for children under 3 years old.
• Dress kids in clothing that covers their arms and legs, and cover cribs, strollers, and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
• Adults should apply repellent to their hands first before applying it to a child’s face.

While the news of Zika cases in the U.S. can be alarming, staying informed and taking proactive measures is our best defense.

If you’re interested in other insights related to home insemination, check out this post on home insemination kits. For those embarking on their fertility journey, Make A Mom is a fantastic resource! Additionally, for further reading on pregnancy topics, you can explore CCRM IVF’s blog.

Summary

The CDC has reported 279 pregnant women in the U.S. have contracted the Zika virus, with potential risks of severe fetal brain defects. While symptoms are generally mild, the virus poses serious threats, particularly for expectant mothers. Precautionary measures are essential to prevent infection, especially for those traveling to Zika-affected regions.