The Zika Virus is something people all around the world are talking about because it can affect our health. Let’s learn about what it is, how it spreads, what happens if you get it, and how you can stay safe!
The Zika Virus was first found in 1947 in monkeys in a place called Uganda, which is in Africa. Later, it was found in people too. Now, it has spread to many places like Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific islands.
The Zika Virus is mostly spread by mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that carry the virus are called Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes also spread other diseases like dengue and yellow fever. So, it’s important to be careful around mosquitoes!
If you get the Zika Virus, you might feel sick for a few days, usually between 2 to 7 days. Here are some things you might feel:
Microcephaly is a serious problem that can happen if a pregnant woman gets the Zika Virus. Babies born with Microcephaly have smaller heads, which can cause problems like:
This is why it’s very important for pregnant women to be extra careful and avoid getting the virus.
Even though there is no vaccine for the Zika Virus yet, you can do a few things to keep yourself safe:
The Zika Virus is something we need to be careful about, especially for pregnant women and their babies. By learning about the virus and how it spreads, and by taking steps to protect ourselves, we can stay safe and healthy. Remember to stay informed and take care of yourself and your family!
Build a Mosquito Trap: With the help of an adult, create a simple mosquito trap using a plastic bottle, water, sugar, and yeast. Observe how it works over a few days. Discuss why mosquitoes are attracted to the trap and how this relates to preventing the spread of the Zika Virus.
Role-Playing Game: Pretend you are a mosquito trying to find a place to lay eggs. Walk around your home or school and identify areas where water might collect. Discuss with your classmates or family how you can eliminate these mosquito breeding sites to prevent the spread of the Zika Virus.
Math Connection: If a mosquito lays about 100 eggs at a time and only 10% of them survive to adulthood, how many adult mosquitoes would there be from one batch of eggs? Use this information to discuss why it’s important to control mosquito populations to prevent diseases like the Zika Virus.
