The Rio 2016 Olympic games have begun and one of the many concerns surrounding the games is how the Zika virus will affect athletes and observers. There are many questions surrounding the topics of preventing infection of attendees and bringing their infections home. Prior to the games, many health professionals even advised against the games taking place.
The disease is being spread both through sexual intercourse and the bite of an Aedes Aegypti mosquito; the same mosquito that spreads a range of diseases which include Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Chikungunya. Zika is not deadly, and it is currently believed that after initial infection the person is immune to future infections, according to the CDC. However, Zika has struck fear into the hearts of many because of it's capability to be passed from a mother to her fetus leading to possible birth defects
As of right now there is neither a cure nor a vaccine for the Zika virus so the CDC recommends getting rest, staying hydrated, and speaking to your doctor for proper medications relevant to symptoms. The primary preventative measures are using bug spray and using protection. While these measures can be helpful there is no way to make yourself immune to the bite of mosquito.
Although, Zika has been a cause for concern for several months fear has grown due to the emergence of small, localized outbreaks in the U.S. According to the CDC, there are 5,548 reported cases of Zika in U.S. territories and 1,825 reported cases in the U.S. states.
Before 2007, there were 14 cases of Zika reported worldwide. However, this does not mean that Zika was not surrounding us. The symptoms of Zika; which last for 2-7 days, are very similar to those of many other diseases, which may have commonly resulted in misdiagnosis.
Health officials have warned that small outbreaks will occur in localized areas, but believe a widespread outbreak in the U.S. is unlikely. But where does that leave people who live in other countries where Zika poses a greater threat? Without a cure or vaccine on the way the number of infections is rapidly rising. What does it mean for a women to be infected in the years prior to a pregnancy? Who will fund research to find treatment, and how can we be sure that it will be available for the general public?
While we wait for the prospect of some form of treatment there may not be a lot we can do. However, what we can do is pay attention to how the virus is being addressed during the Olympics. How are athletes and observers being protected, and how are small localized outbreaks, both local and abroad being treated? We can apply some of the results to the previously mentioned questions. Finally, We can keep this topic relevant to ensure it is addressed diligently and properly.
