SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah — A Salt Lake County woman who was infected with the Zika virus has given birth to a healthy baby, according to a news release from the Salt Lake County Health Department.
The infant tested negative for the Zika virus, despite the mother testing positive.
“The outcome of this particular situation is a good one, but it’s a strong reminder that people who are travelling to areas of the world where Zika-carrying mosquitos are present—especially women who are or may become pregnant—need to take proper precautions and protect themselves from mosquitoes,” said Dr. Dagmar Vitek, SLCoHD Medical Officer, in a statement sent to FOX 13. “Make an appointment with a travel clinic or your health care provider as soon as you know you’ll be travelling to an affected area.”
The Centers for Disease Control also advises male sexual partners of women of child-bearing age to protect themselves from mosquitoes while traveling, the news release said.
Earlier this week, the World Health Organization announced the Zika virus causes microcephaly, a condition in which a baby’s head develops smaller than expected, and Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks nerves.
The CDC offers a list of areas with active Zika transmission at www.cdc.gov/zika/
Health experts recommend that travelers visit an international travel clinic well in advance of travelling. Appointments at the Salt Lake County Health Department Travel Clinic are available by calling 385-468-4111.
