The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness that has been reported in various places around the world, including South West Florida. For this reason, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that people living in or traveling to southern Florida be aware of the potential dangers of this virus.

Mosquito-borne illnesses are always a bigger concern in warmer and more humid climates, so it is of little surprise that this virus has been seen in areas of Florida. The virus transmitted via the Aedes species of mosquito, which can be a nuisance day or night.

As of yet, there is no vaccine or medication that successfully treats the Zika virus, which helps to highlight the concern over this easily spreadable virus. Pregnant women infected with the Zika virus can spread the virus to their offspring and older individuals, as well as those with compromised immune system, are at higher risk of complications.

While Zika virus is a concern, in most cases there are no symptoms and the virus is removed from the blood within about a week. Some experience mild symptoms, whereas a small percentage of people experience more extreme symptoms like red eyes, muscle, and joint pain, rash, fever, and more.

Zika can only be diagnosed via a blood or urine test.

If you experience symptoms, especially if you are pregnant, it is highly recommended that you see your doctor to ensure that you have not contracted the Zika virus.

If you have Zika virus, the treatment is pretty similar to that of the flu. It is advised that you get lots of rest and drink a lot of fluid. The use of over the counter pain relievers to reduce joint and muscle pain. If you notice blood in your urine, stool, or if you vomit blood, you need to seek medical attention immediately.

Hot and humid locations like sunny southern Florida make for a great vacation destination and a wonderful place to live. However, the climate is not without its faults and one of the biggest is that mosquitoes and the diseases they carry continue to be an issue in parts of the country that have this type of climate. Zika virus is a relatively new mosquito-borne disease that mimics many symptoms of a cold or flu.

While most people infected with the Zika virus experience minor or even no symptoms, older people, pregnant women, and those with ailing immune systems are at a higher risk for a more severe reaction. There is currently no vaccine or medication to treat Zika, so if infected, the best thing to do is rest, drink a lot of fluid, and to keep an eye of the progression of your symptoms.

If you are presenting symptoms which are associated with Zika please visit www.ipalc.org/find to find a physician in Lee county, Florida who can help to diagnose and care for you.