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Although it is a new virus, which has caused several issues in the past couple of months, yet Zika has intrigued interest of the world. The first infected Florida mosquitoes, which was found in Miami has caused the virus to spread over to the US now.

Consequently, a need has arisen to make sure that residents of the area follow proper preventive measures. Also, residents of the continental US should know about the symptoms of ZIka, so that they can be curbed at the beginning. For this proper knowledge about the disease is essential.

Symptoms of Zika Virus

The common symptoms of Zika virus include fever, rash, and joint pains. Other symptoms include muscle pain and headache, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The infection of ZIka virus starts with mild symptoms, which can last from several days to a week. Patients don't generally get too sick to be hospitalized, and rarely die of ZIka infection. This is why patients may not even notice that they have been infected with the Zika virus.

Tests

Since Zika virus resides in the blood for approximately a week, it is prudent to get checked regularly, especially as soon as a person suspects he/she is infected. It is better to visit the doctor, so that they can run tests for not only Zika, but a similar infectious disease like chikungunya or dengue.

Treatments

Presently, there is no known cure or treatment to Zika virus. However, patients can be treated by hydration, rest and pain medication to alleviate the pain. Ibuprofen is a good choice for pain medication. Additionally, it is a good option to consult a doctor, who can provide a more personalized medication for the patient after knowing about specific ailments.

Some of the medicines, which should be avoided by Zika patients are aspirin and other non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) until the risk of bleeding can be ruled out.

Spread of ZIka

Maps from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have shown that Zika will be spreading from the lower tip of Connecticut to Southern and Western California. However, this is not accurate, and only a prediction of the possible tracks.

Presently steps are being taken in the affected and surrounding areas to curb the growth of the Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes. However, residents should also take in some precautionary measure to stop the spread of the diseases.