10:06am: Talkline with Hoppy Kercheval

State’s first case of Zika virus confirmed

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The state DHHR and Bureau for Public Health received confirmation on Thursday of West Virginia’s first case of the Zika virus.

Zika virus is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The most common symptoms are fever, rash, red eyes, and joint pain.

“With the number of Zika outbreaks occurring in many parts of the world where West Virginians travel for vacation, business or mission work, the likelihood of a finding a Zika case in our State was foreseeable,” said State Health Officer Dr. Rahul Gupta. “The confirmed case involves an adult male and resident of Clay County who traveled to Haiti. He is no longer exhibiting symptoms and has made a full recovery.”

Currently, there has been no local transmission of disease reported in the United States. Cases in the U.S. have only been found in return travelers who were bitten by the infected mosquito while traveling abroad.

Gupta said the illness is usually not serious, with symptoms lasting from several days to a week after being bitten.

“It’s important to remember that four out of five persons who have the Zika virus experience no symptoms at all, and of those who do experience symptoms they are usually mild and recover fully,” said Gupta. “However, if you are pregnant or are considering becoming pregnant around the time you will be traveling to parts of the world where Zika virus is occurring, you should consider postponing trips to those areas at this time.”

Zika virus is not circulating in West Virginia, a DHHR release stated.





More News

News
MetroNews This Morning 3-29-24
Summary of West Virginia news, sports, and weather for Friday, March 29, 2024
March 29, 2024 - 6:24 am
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 29, 2024 - 1:23 am
News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm