This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Colgate chapter.
Zika Virus: Quick Facts to Staying Safe in your Spring Break Travels
For all you springbreakers that are traveling to the Caribbean, Central or South America this week, here are a few things to know about the Zika Virus to bear in mind as you go against the CDC travel warnings in these affected areas:
What’s this virus all about?
The Zika Virus has been all over the news in recent weeks due to the rise in outbreaks in over 30 countries throughout Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. It is most commonly spread by an infected Aedes mosquito carrying the virus, but can also be transmitted via sexual contact with an infected person. Pregnant women are at the biggest risk so far, since a transmission from mother to baby can cause serious birth defects, such as microcephaly. Throwing in some mosquito repellent and a few condoms will surely help you out if spring break is callin’ your name!
What are my likely symptoms?
According to the CDC, many people won’t even experience any symptoms at all! Others may get fevers, body rashes, joint pains, and red eyes. Add in some Tylenol to your toiletry bag to help with these symptoms, and make sure to drink plenty of water (or your preferred beverage) to avoid dehydration, which makes these symptoms worse. There is no vaccine to prevent Zika Virus, butttt… getting rest, drinking fluids and taking Tylenol will help to treat the symptoms.
Do I postpone my trip or take the risk and travel?!
It’s all up to you, now! For more information, visit http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html…However, it is spring break, we’re in the prime of our 20s and that much needed vitamin D is screaming our names. If you do go, take the needed precautions (repellent, Tylenol, condoms, water, and maybe sleep with a bug net). Either way, enjoy this week without professors, papers, midterms and whatever else this past week has dealt you. Be safe, and happy spring break!!!!