Public Health Investigating Travel Related Zika Case

 

Department of Health and Human Services
Sherri Heller
Director

7/28/2016 10:00 PM

Media Contact:

Samantha Mott    motts@saccounty.net    (916) 875-0973

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

                                                                                                                                                                                         Contact: Samantha Mott

                                                                                                                                                                                         MottS@saccounty.net

                                                                                                                                                                                         Phone: 916-875-0973/Cell: 642-5508

 

 

Public Health Investigating Travel Related Zika Case

 

Sacramento, California – Sacramento County Division of Public Health is investigating a probable case of Zika virus in a 34-year-old male who has travel history to an area with active Zika transmission.

Zika is spread primarily by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. According to the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito and Vector Control District, the local agency in charge of controlling mosquitoes, the two primary mosquito species capable of transmitting Zika virus have not been detected in Sacramento County. However these invasive mosquito species are well established in some parts of California.

"Since we currently do not have the two primary vectors of Zika, risk to residents is very low at this time," indicated Gary Goodman, Manager for the District.

Symptoms of Zika include; fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eyes), muscle pain, and headache. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine for Zika.

 

West Nile Virus

Additionally, the Sacramento County Division of Public Health is investigating seven human cases of West Nile virus (WNV). One case has been confirmed; Sacramento County Public Health is waiting on confirmation for the additional six from the State Department of Public Health. The residents range in age, from 11 to 82-years-old. Six of the cases are neuro-invasive. Symptoms of neuro-invasive disease may include; headache, high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, and paralysis.

Public Health has also been notified of one equine case of West Nile virus in Sacramento County.

West Nile virus is transmitted to humans and animals through a mosquito bite. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds. While 80 percent of those infected with WNV will have no symptoms and not realize they have been infected, it is still important to take personal precautions to prevent contracting the virus.

According to vector control, to date, WNV activity is very intense and widespread throughout Sacramento County. The District's laboratory surveillance program routinely monitors WNV activity by collecting mosquitoes and testing them for the virus.  Currently, a total of 273 mosquito samples and 281 dead birds have tested positive for the disease.

"Prevention is the best protection," says Dr. Olivia Kasirye, Sacramento County Public Health Officer. "The elderly, the very young, and those traveling to countries with active Zika transmission need to be especially vigilant and follow the seven D's of mosquito protection."

DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes. 
DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.   
DRESS appropriately by wearing long sleeves and pants when outside. 
DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent.  Make sure to follow label directions! 
DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call them at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net