The Zika virus and how to protect against it

 (MGN Online Photo)

DE PERE (WLUK) -- As Americans plan for the end of vacation season, there is a new travel advisory in place due to the Zika Virus.

"No matter where this is identified, whether this is in Florida, or whether it's in Central America, it's important for people to recognize the symptoms and the prevention techniques,” said Chrystal Woller, the Health Director for the City De Pere.

The Zika virus spreads through the bite of an infected mosquito.

For pregnant women, it's possible to spread the virus to their unborn child.

"Pregnant women are at an increased risk of birth defects of their unborn child, microcephaly is what it's called, so children born with a smaller head is what they've been seeing in other countries,” explained Woller.

Woller says while the virus isn't in Wisconsin, it's important for people to know the symptoms.

Those symptoms include; headache, rash, joint pain or red eyes.

"So very mild symptoms, and again only 20 percent of the population that become infected with Zika comes down with those symptoms,” explained Woller.

Woller added people traveling should check the Center for Disease Control’s website for locations the virus has been confirmed in.

She says pregnant women should also talk to their doctor before booking their trip.

The health department says it's unlikely the type of mosquito that carries the Zika virus could survive Wisconsin's climate.

Source:  BY COURTNEY RYAN, FOX