Researchers Working on New Tests That Determines Zika Infection Faster
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A University of Florida entomologist is working with other scientists to detect the Zika virus in minutes, rather than days or weeks, allowing for faster and more targeted mosquito control practices and detection in patient samples.
Zika can lead to multiple symptoms in adults, including fever, rash, headache and joint pain. It also can cause microcephaly, a condition that causes infants to be born with a head that’s much smaller than that of a normal baby.
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The CDC Releases Data on Reported cases of Zika as of June 2017
US States reported cases
- 140 symptomatic Zika virus disease cases reported*
- 139 cases in travelers returning from affected areas
- 0 cases acquired through presumed local mosquito-borne transmission
- 1 case acquired through sexual transmission
It is important to note that as of this report 0 cases were acquired by local transmission.
To read the current statistics click here.
Are pesticides harmful to people?
Here is what the CDC says
Effect on human health is one of the primary factors considered in regulation of pesticides. Pesticides that can be used for mosquito control have been judged by the EPA not to pose an unreasonable risk to human health. Although it is not necessary, people who are concerned about exposure to a pesticide, such as those with chemical sensitivity or breathing conditions such as asthma can reduce their potential for exposure by staying indoors during the application period (typically nighttime).
A published study, (MMWR, July 11, 2003) examined illnesses in nine states associated with exposure to pesticides used to control mosquito populations from 1999-2002. This study found that “application of certain insecticides poses a low risk for acute, temporary health effects among person in areas that were sprayed and among workers handling and applying insecticides.