The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel alert and guidelines for the Zika virus. Zika is spread through mosquito bites (mostly during daytime hours). Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis, which are generally mild and can last from several days to a week. Severe reactions can require hospitalization. Areas where Zika is confirmed include Puerto Rico, most Caribbean islands, Mexico, Central and South America, and American Samoa. If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, the CDC is recommending that travel to these regions be limited, as the virus can cause miscarriage and birth defects. For cancer patients who are immune compromised, any travel should be severely curtailed. For all others, it is important to discuss all travel plans with your doctor prior to leaving. Zika Prevention Tips When traveling to Zika-prevalent countries, the CDC recommends the following:
about the author
Lizzy Smith
Lizzy Smith was diagnosed with myeloma in 2012 at age 44. Within days, she left her job, ended her marriage, moved, and entered treatment. "To the extent I'm able, I want to prove that despite life's biggest challenges, it is possible to survive and come out stronger than ever," she says.
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