FREEHOLD – The Monmouth County Mosquito Control Division and Monmouth County Health Department are actively monitoring the Zika virus situation and urge residents to be cautious when traveling to countries where Zika transmission is occurring. The virus is spread to people through mosquito bites.
“Currently, there is no evidence of Zika in Monmouth County,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Serena DiMaso in a press release. “The County is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take action when, and if, necessary.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued travel information for those planning to travel to areas that have reported local transmission of the Zika virus, including Central America, South America, the Caribbean and Mexico.
“If you are traveling out of the country, make sure to check if there is a threat of Zika in the country you are traveling to and, if so, take the proper precautions to prevent mosquito bites,” said DiMaso.
The most common symptoms of the Zika virus are fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis. The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon.
“The Health Department is in constant communication with the CDC and New Jersey Department of Health regarding the evolving Zika situation,” said Monmouth County Public Health Coordinator Christopher Merkel in a press release. “Residents should actively connect to accurate, well-known and legitimate information sources and dismiss misinformation from non-credible sources.”
“We are learning more about Zika every day,” said DiMaso. “Links to the most current information, including travel notices, are available at www.visitmonmouth.com.”