fbpx
Site logo

--- Advertisement ---

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

What You Need to Know about the Zika Virus

Zika virus

The recent increase in the number of Zika virus transmissions in Thailand has raised alarms in our community. Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has reported to Reuters that they have “recorded over 200 cases over the past three weeks, and have confirmed an average of 20 new cases a week.”

In the midst of this, we stress the importance of remaining calm and employing common-sense prevention against infection. We also stress that Zika is only a major threat to women who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as the virus can cause birth defects. To this end, we recently sat down with our infectious disease specialists to bring you the following information regarding the Zika virus.

What is Zika, and How Can You Get Infected?

The Zika virus is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is also responsible for the spread of Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever. In addition to mosquitos, the virus is also transmitted by blood transfusions from infected persons, or unprotected sexual contact with an infected person who is actively displaying symptoms.

What are the Symptoms?

Most people with an active Zika infection may not experience any symptoms at all, and therefore not be aware that they have been infected. The symptoms are usually mild, but some patients can experience the following symptoms within 2-7 days of being infected:

  • Fever
  • Rash (at bite site, if applicable)
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Redness of the Eyes (Conjunctivitis)
  • Fatigue
  • Headache

If you experience any of these symptoms and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, please seek immediate medical attention. Contact one of our infectious disease specialists by calling 0 2667 1555 or visit our website to set your appointment. Your doctor will be able to give you clear instructions on how to treat the symptoms, some of which are usually mild and can be treated by getting plenty of rest and fluids.

If you believe you have been infected, here’s what to do:

  • First, don’t panic. Contact your doctor immediately and inform them of your possible infection. This is especially important if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
  • Get tested for the virus right away.
  • Avoid transmitting it to others by practicing safe interactions and avoiding further mosquito bites, especially after the onset of symptoms.

Advice for Pregnant Women 

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you are advised to take more precautions against infection. While symptoms of the virus are generally mild and can be treated relatively easily, pregnant women can transmit the virus to their child at the time of birth or shortly after, causing birth defects such as Microcephaly (identified by a small head size and developmental difficulties).

How to Avoid Infection:

  • Avoid mosquito bites by using an effective mosquito repellent or protective clothing when outside.
  • Always practice safe sex by using protection, even with a long-time partner.
  • Keep your home clean, and get rid of stagnant water which can be a breeding ground for mosquitos.

While there are still a lot of unknowns regarding the spread of the Zika virus, experts are working to close the knowledge gap and vaccines are currently being tested. Until a successful vaccine is available, the best thing to do is to avoid being infected by making safe and sensible decisions. If you believe you may be at risk, talk to your doctor today.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored content from Bumrungrad International Hospital, and it is reprinted here with permission of the hospital. 

Image credit: Wikipedia

Pssst... like what you're reading?

Join our community and never miss an event, post or update!

Just enter your email address below:

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Follow Us!

Upcoming Events

HELLO KITTY Exhibition : Celebration of Friendship

Central World 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan,, Bangkok 10330, Bangkok, Thailand

Hello Kitty Exhibition: Celebration of Friendship To bring cuteness and brightness to fans! *The images in the exhibition are for advertising purposes only. Buy tickets now and receive special souvenirs […]

Please Contact

Sanrio Characters : The Funtastic Exhibition

Central World 999/9 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan,, Bangkok 10330, Bangkok, Thailand

Sanrio characters: Funtastic Exhibition Where Sanrio fans gather to have fun to the max *The images inside the exhibition are for advertising purposes only Buy tickets now at: www.icvticket.com Ticket […]

Please Contact

Wellington College International Bangkok – Football Training

Wellington College International Bangkok 18 Krungthep Kreetha Road Saphan Sung District, Bangkok, Thailand

Join us here at Wellington for the finest football training in town! Our Wellington Extra providers, Galaxy, have lots of extra opportunities on their programmes this year. If your child […]

฿12000 – ฿35200

BimBi Italiani – Imparando l’Italiano

Salesian Sisters Foundation Saladaeng Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok, Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand +1 more

ANNOUNCEMENT : ENROLLMENT OPEN FOR "IMPARANDO L'ITALIANO" IN BANGKOK,THAILAND For everyone in , BimBi Italiani has reopened registration for the weekly group language courses for children in Imparando l'Italiano from September […]

฿610 – ฿8610

Asobiba Art Exhibition

XSPACE GALLERY 71 15 Pridi Banomyong 14 Alley, Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana,, Bangkok, Thailand

“Asobiba” Group exhibition by Nagoya University of the Arts and the Department of Fine Arts at KMITL At Xspace Gallery, Bangkok. (Main Hall) SHOW PERIOD: September 7 – December 22, […]

Please Contact
Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Get the latest kid and family-friendly activities and events in your inbox every Thursday! No spam, guaranteed.

More information

Recent Posts

Christmas Events in Bangkok

Are you looking to get in the holiday spirit? Or perhaps you’re ready to tick of all of those things your kiddos have on their list to Santa? Have no

Group kids play on festive camp at night

Festive Winter Camp Guide

Holiday breaks are a time for students to step back and refresh from the first academic semester. While many families will use this an another opportunity to continue exploring Thailand,

Loy Krathong

Family Friendly Loy Krathong Events

Loy Krathong is one of the most beautiful and picturesque festivals in Thailand where the lakes, canals and rivers all come alive with a sea of flickering lights as people

loy Krathong festival

Celebrating Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong is one of the most beautiful and picturesque festivals in Thailand where the lakes, canals and rivers all come alive with a sea of flickering lights as people