Gov’t says four Canadians infected with Zika virus after travel

We’re learning more about a virus health experts across the state say is causing “urgent concerns” for pregnant women.

The virus is transmitted through mosquitoes, and once a prenant woman is infected, it can spread to her fetus. Babies with microcephaly are born with small heads and potential brain damage.

Previous year the virus was discovered in Brazil, and in the past eight months has been found in 23 countries in South, Central and North America.

The World Health Organization predicts as many as four million people could become infected in the Americas.

Venezuelan Health Minister Luisana Melo said her country has seen 255 cases of Guillain-Barre, apparently as part of its effort to fight Zika, though she did not specify the link or the time frame.

For more information on the Zika virus, log onto the CDC’S website and search “Zika virus”.

Travel restriction has been placed on Nigerians who intend to visit Latin America following the outbreak of Zika virus in that region, the government said on Friday.

Dr. Theresa Tam with Health Canada discussed blood donations from people who may have just travelled or who could potentially be infected. “Guatemala’s humid climate is quite favorable” to the virus, said Garcia.

Pregnant women have been advised not to travel to certain areas to reduce the risk of contracting the virus, including Ecuador, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Saint Martin and Mexico, among others.

Dr Sandeep Sonawane, consulting specialist at Sunshine Hospital, Nerul, said that no confirmed cases have been reported so far at the National Institute of Virology in Pune.

“It’s affecting pregnant mothers”, said Martinez. But for right now, you can rest assured that there is no current outbreak in the U.S.

Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to avoid contracting the virus; just like West Nile or Chikungunya, the best way to prevent yourself from getting Zika virus is to avoid mosquito bites. Symptoms can include a rash, pink eye, sore muscles and joints, and a fever.