Zika Virus Information and Prevention

Updated August 16, 2016 - Eastern Florida State College is monitoring a federal health advisory on Zika virus in the state of Florida, with a two-pronged focus on eliminating standing water that contributes to mosquito breeding and the sharing of resources aimed at protecting the college community.

As of August 16, there were 11 confirmed cases of travel-related Zika in Brevard County.

Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, or in rare cases, through a blood transfusion.

Pregnant women infected with Zika can also transmit the disease in utero. Unborn fetuses exposed to Zika virus present a high risk for developing birth defects, such as microcephaly.

Symptoms of the Zika virus are mild, typically last up to a week, and include rash, joint or muscle pain, fever, headache, or red eyes. Most people infected with Zika do not exhibit any symptoms.

If you believe you may have contracted the Zika virus, please seek professional medical attention. While there is currently no cure for the Zika virus, it is usually possible to treat the symptoms before returning to a regular lifestyle.

Eastern Florida State College is increasing efforts to remove standing water from all campuses. Meanwhile, you can take additional steps to prevent the spread of Zika virus such as:

• Take part in the Florida Health Department's "Spill the Water" Campaign by eliminating standing water inside and outside the home
• Use insect repellent and wear long clothing to reduce the risk of mosquito bites
• Avoid traveling to areas affected by Zika if you are pregnant
• Practice safe sex using barrier contraceptives, or abstain from sex entirely
• Turn on the air conditioning or implement screens and mosquito netting indoors

For more information, check the following resources:

• Zika Virus Information Hotline at 1-855-622-6735

• CDC Zika Information Website

• Florida Department of Health Zika Information Website

• Florida "Spill the Water" Campaign Website

Eastern Florida State College will continue to provide updates pertaining to the Zika virus as needed.