Zika virus threatens all of America

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The World Health Organization warned that the Zika virus could spread to almost the whole of North and South America.

An infection that causes fever, conjunctivitis, and pain has already been detected in 21, a Caribbean country in North and South America.

The virus is believed to be the cause of the birth of thousands of babies with an underdeveloped brain, and some countries have already advised women to abstain from pregnancy.

There is no cure or vaccine for the disease. A virus originally from Africa. In May, 2015 was recorded for the first time in Brazil.

It is believed that it is rapidly spreading in the countries of North and South America, since the local population does not have natural immunity.

Mosquitoes

Zika virus is transmitted by mosquito bites. Aedes, common in tropical and subtropical zones of all continents. Among the countries of America, they are absent only in Canada and Chile.

In a statement, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said: "PAHO expects that the Zika virus continues to spread and is likely to reach all countries and territories where Aedes mosquitoes can be found."

The organization confirmed that the virus was detected in semen and one possible infection was recorded during sexual intercourse, but new indications are needed to confirm this form of spread of the virus.

Approximately 80% of all Zika virus infections are not accompanied by any symptoms.

However, the greatest concern is the potential impact on the development of the fetus in the womb. In Brazil alone, since October, 4000 cases of microcephaly have been recorded, babies with abnormally underdeveloped brains.

The CEP advises women to be vigilant and consult with doctors before visiting the areas of spread of the Zika virus.

Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador and Jamaica last week made recommendations to women to postpone pregnancy until the time it became known about the virus.

Although officially the WHO says that “any decision to delay pregnancy should be made at an individual level by the woman herself, her husband and her doctor.”

The organization urges people to defend themselves from mosquito bites, which also spread dengue and chikungunya.

As wrote earlier by ForumDaily, Russian President Vladimir Putin saidthat the first Russian vaccine against Ebola, judging by the results of the tests, shows higher efficacy than drugs used in the world.