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The Zika virus outbreak continues to spread with recent ongoing transmission reported in Mexico and in many areas in Central and South America and the Caribbean. As of February 3, 2016, 35 travel associated cases, with no locally acquired vector-borne transmission, have been reported in U.S. states. In Mississippi, no travel associated cases have been reported.
Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Evidence is now suggesting an association between Zika virus infection in pregnancy and an increased risk of microcephaly and other abnormalities. Evidence also suggests that sexual transmission of Zika virus is possible and is of particular concern during pregnancy.
With the evolving situation, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued additional guidance for the prevention of and testing for Zika virus infection.
The Mississippi State Department of Health is releasing the following guidance for prevention, testing and reporting of Zika virus disease in Mississippi.
Prevention:
Men who travel to an area of active Zika virus transmission who have a pregnant partner should abstain from sexual activity or use condoms during sex for the duration of the pregnancy.
Pregnant women in any trimester should consider postponing travel to the areas where Zika virus transmission is ongoing. If travel is necessary, pregnant women should follow mosquito exposure prevention measures.
To prevent local human-to-mosquito-to-human transmission, any person with travel to an area with Zika virus transmission should protect themselves from mosquito exposures for two weeks after return from travel.
Testing Recommendations:
Testing is recommended for persons with a history of travel to an area with Zika virus transmission who are in one of the following categories:
Have two or more symptoms consistent with infection (acute onset of fever, maculopapular rash, arthralgia, or conjunctivitis) during or within 2 weeks of travel, or
Any asymptomatic pregnant woman, between 2-12 weeks after return from travel.
Reporting:Please call the MSDH Office of Epidemiology at 601-576-7725 (601-576-7740 after hours, weekends and holidays):
To report suspected Zika virus disease in returning travelers, and to arrange for testing of both symptomatic travelers and asymptomatic pregnant women.
Information was gathered from the Mississippi State Department of Health.
