February 5, 2016 - Zika is an infectious disease caused by the Zika virus, which is transmitted to people by certain species of mosquito.
The mosquitoes that transmit Zika are not known to exist in Mariposa County.
In California, the Zika virus has only been detected in travelers to areas where the virus is common. The Zika virus is not widespread in the United States.
Symptoms of Zika are usually mild and typically include fever, rash, joint pain, and/or red eyes. The symptoms generally begin within a few days to a week after a mosquito bite from an infected mosquito. The virus is NOT spread through casual contact such as touching or kissing an infected person.
There is concern because recent reports indicate there is a possible association between Zika infection in pregnant women and newborns with microcephaly (abnormally small head and brain.) Until more is known, and out of an abundance of caution, the California Department of Public Health recommends special travel precautions for pregnant women and women trying to become pregnant:
Avoid travel to areas where ongoing Zika virus transmission is occurring.
Visit: Mariposa County Zika Virus for an up to date list of areas with ongoing transmission or call 209-966-3689 before you travel
If you do travel to an area where there is ongoing Zika virus transmission, avoid mosquito bites:
Avoid going outside – mosquitos that carry Zika are ‘daytime’ biters
Stay inside areas with screened windows and doors
Use mosquito repellant
Wear long sleeve shirts and long pants
If you are pregnant and have traveled or will travel to an area with ongoing Zika virus transmission during pregnancy, notify your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
The CDC also made the following recommendation: “Men who reside in or have traveled to an area of active Zika virus transmission who have a pregnant partner should abstain from sexual activity or consistently and correctly use condoms during sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) for the duration of the pregnancy. Pregnant women should discuss their male partner’s potential exposures to mosquitoes and history of Zika-like illness with their health care provider…”
There is no evidence of mosquitos carrying Zika virus in California; however, mosquitos are known to transmit other diseases in California such as the West Nile virus. People should always take steps to avoid mosquito bites, including removing standing water and wearing insect repellent when necessary. Contact the Environmental Health Division for more information on how to prevent mosquito bites.
If you have questions or are interested in additional Zika information please visit: Mariposa County Zika Virus or call the Mariposa County Health Department at 209.966.3689 - toll free 1.800.459.4466 during regular business hours.
Source: Mariposa County
