Zika virus found in Montana

State public health officials have identified the first case of Zika virus infection in Montana in an adult from Missoula County who returned from a Zika-affected area. 

Zika is a disease caused by a virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquito.  This species is not found in Montana.  Travelers returning from Zika-affected areas who have symptoms or are pregnant should consult with their health care provider.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the most common symptoms of Zika infection are fever, rash, joint pain and red, itchy eyes.  Symptoms are usually mild and last several days to a week. About 1 in 5 people infected with Zika virus will get sick.  For people who get sick, the illness is usually mild and many people might not realize they have been infected. 

Zika virus has recently been linked with serious health problems in pregnant women.  To minimize risks of complications, public health officials recommend that pregnant women or women wanting to get pregnant follow CDC guidance to prevent Zika infections.  Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent Zika virus disease and no specific treatment for people who are infected. 

CDC recommends that pregnant women should consider postponing travel to affected areas.  If travel cannot be postponed, use of insect repellant and/or clothes treated with permethrin and staying in places with air conditioning and window and door screens while in affected areas to prevent mosquito bites is strongly recommended.

Recommendations to prevent the sexual spread of Zika virus from returning travelers have also been issued by public health officials.  Women who are pregnant are reminded to use condoms or abstain from sex with a partner returning recently from a Zika-affected area.  Couples who are trying to get pregnant and have returned from Zika-affected areas are encouraged to consult with their health care provider.

Montana is one of 25 states reporting a travel-associated case of Zika.

For more information about Zika virus, please talk with your provider or call Lincoln County Public Health Department at 406-283-2465.