|
| | Thursday, February 11, 2016
|
Zika virus reported in Tennessee The first case of Zika virus has been reported in Tennessee. The state Department of Health said the individual had traveled to South America prior to returning to East Tennessee. Dr. Tim Jones, state epidemiologist, says the state was prepared for the likely development. "We are not at all surprised," says Jones. "We predicted this and I'm quite certain that we will continue to see cases in returning travelers." Jones says it's important to note that except in pregnant women, Zika virus is almost always a mild illness. About 80 percent of those infected never show symptoms. There is no vaccine to prevent infection, but warning signs are fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes. The Department of Health advises travelers going to warmer climates in the Caribbean and South and Central America to take extra precautions against mosquitoes, which are the main source of transmission of the virus. Jones says Zika poses the most direct risk to people who travel to the affected areas. "There's a small chance that if a person comes back while they're infected, that in the next few days if a mosquito bites them, they could possibly transmit it to others," he says. "But I don't think this will become widespread with permanent circulation in our state." There are a variety of insect repellents available to protect against mosquito bites, including products applied directly to skin and clothing.
|
Return to Today's News Stories - Front PageThursday, April 29, 2021
US 411 Project News
Mill Creek Wildfire Update
More Bad News For Smokies' Fans
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Mill Creek Wildfire doubles in size
Goodbye Smokies?
Keep Cocke County Beautiful
Cocke Co. High School Remote Learning today!
Tuesday, April 27, 2021
The fireflies are coming!
Burnout Operations on MillCreek wildfire today
Gas prices drop
Tennessee keeps all US House seats
Monday, April 26, 2021
Boat accident victim ID'd
Traffic stop yields drug arrest
Cocke County Wildfires
Friday, April 23, 2021
Leaving WNPC
Mathis announces candidacy
Newport drug roundup
Cruise Against Cancer
Jobless numbers
|
|
|