According to the latest Zika virus New York update, at least four children with brain developmental symptoms were born in the city since July. The update from the health department means that the total number of babies born with such symptoms is now five.
The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has now asked sexually active women who belong to the reproductive age to be more careful while traveling to regions affected by Zika virus. The warning goes for pregnant women as well. They are asked to use a reliable form of birth control while having sex in such places.
It is believed that the virus has been majorly eased in most of the places. However, it will still take some time for the virus to completely go away. It is still dangerous and poses a serious threat to newborns.
The most recent Zika virus New York update comes as the world is more aware of the term called microcephaly. Under this condition, the baby is born with unusually small heads. They also come with an underdeveloped brain. Zika virus is typically transmitted by mosquito bites. But, the virus can also be transmitted through sex.
Pregnant women or those who are trying to get pregnant are more in danger due to the virus. While the virus comes only with mild illness in general, it can severely affect the brain development of the fetus.
The New York Health Department notes that, until Friday, around 8,000 people in the city are tested for the virus. According to the New York Times, 962 of them tested positive. The more alarming part is that 325 of them are pregnant women.
The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy notes that Florida Health has recorded five cases with Zika virus since Nov. 30. All of them are residents of Miami-Dade County. It means Florida has 249 cases of Zika virus as of now.
Florida has put 180 pregnant women under surveillance. These women have shown evidence of being infected by the virus. Now, the latest Zika virus New York update is sure to alarm people.
