LANSING. – Michigan health officials have identified the first
confirmed case of Zika virus in a Michigan resident. 

The patient, a female resident of Ingham County, contracted the
virus when traveling in a country where Zika virus is being transmitted. 

The patient, who was not pregnant, experienced symptoms
consistent with Zika virus disease shortly after her return to Michigan. 

Zika virus is spread to people primarily through the bite of an
infected Aedes aegypti mosquito.  The mosquitoes are not found in
Michigan, but are widespread in tropical and subtropical areas. 

The most common symptoms are fever, rash, joint pain and red,
itchy eyes.  Symptoms are typically mild and last several days to a week. 
Many people who are infected will not experience any symptoms.  There is
no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika virus infection.

“This is the time of year when many Michigan residents are
traveling to warmer climates,” said Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive at
the Michigan Department of Health and Human services.   “If you have plans
to travel to areas where Zika virus is present, take precautions to prevent
mosquito bites.  If you are pregnant, or may become pregnant, consider
postponing your trip.”

Pregnant women are most at risk for complications from the Zika
virus.  Serious birth defects have been reported in children born to women
who were infected with Zika virus during pregnancy.  Scientists are
studying the connection between Zika virus and poor birth outcomes.  Until
more is known, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is currently
advising pregnant women to avoid travel to countries where Zika virus is
circulating.  

For the most up-to-date information about where Zika virus is
found, visit //wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/zika-travel-information.