Zika Virus
Zika virus is spread by an infected mosquito or when an infected person has unprotected sex with another person. Most people with Zika do not know they have it. Symptoms are usually mild and last about a week.
Common symptoms:
Fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Other symptoms include headache and muscle pain. If you develop symptoms within two weeks of travel, see a doctor or nurse and tell them where you traveled.
Pregnant women should discuss any travel plans with their doctor or nurse before going. Zika can cause a birth defect called microcephaly and other severe brain birth defects.
West Nile Virus
Most people infected with West Nile do not have symptoms.
Common symptoms:
Fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Symptoms such as tiredness and weakness can last for weeks or months.
The elderly and those with medical issues are more likely to develop serious symptoms. In rare cases, people with West Nile can develop swelling or infection of the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues.
For more information
Currently the City of New Orleans Mosquito and Termite Control Board and the New Orleans Health Department (NOHD) are working with partners to provide you with information about mosquito-borne diseases. Efforts to limit the mosquito population will use a combination of chemical control and habitat reduction methods as needed.
If you have questions, please call 311 for further information and assistance, or visit:
www.nola.gov/mosquito
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