Zika Virus
Zika is a viral disease spread to people mainly via bites of infected mosquitoes, however, the virus lives in bodily fluids and sexual transmission has been documented.
Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected people. The virus is transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti (Yellow fever mosquito) and Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger mosquito). While both types of mosquitoes have been found in Virginia Beach, the Asian Tiger mosquito is more common.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available for the virus. The best defense at this point is protection against mosquito bites and the best way to protect against bites is to keep mosquitoes from breeding.
The best way to prevent Zika Virus from gaining a foothold in Virginia Beach is to keep mosquitoes from breeding.
Mosquitoes eggs can survive in just a teaspoon of standing water. The best way to protect your family and community is to search out and eliminate standing water around your home/property at least twice a week. Please also encourage friends and neighbors to do the same.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus
Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is a rare illness in humans, and only a few cases are reported in the United States each year – mostly in Atlantic and Gulf Coast states.
Symptoms
Most persons infected with EEEV have no apparent illness. Severe cases of EEE (involving encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain) begin with the sudden onset of headache, high fever, chills, and vomiting. The illness may then progress into disorientation, seizures, or coma. EEE is one of the most severe mosquito-transmitted diseases in the United States with approximately 33% mortality and significant brain damage in most survivors. There is no specific treatment for EEE; care is based on symptoms.
Reduce your risk of being infected with EEEV by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors while mosquitos are most active. If you think you or a family member may have EEE, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.
West Nile Virus
West Nile virus is most commonly transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. Reduce your risk of being infected by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites. There are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent WNV infection. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected will develop a fever with other symptoms. Less than 1% of infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, neurological illness.
Mosquito Bite Prevention & Control (CDC)
West Nile Symptoms & Treatment (CDC)
West Nile Transmission (CDC)