Dr. Mark Pinsky Provides ZIKA Virus Update, 162 Confirmed Cases Reported In Florida

By  //  August 9, 2016

THE DOCTOR'S CORNER

As I reported several months ago, the ZIKA virus has become particularly widespread throughout the Caribbean and is now making its way to our shores.
As I reported several months ago, the ZIKA virus has become particularly widespread throughout the Caribbean and is now making its way to our shores.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – As I reported several months ago, the ZIKA virus has become particularly widespread throughout the Caribbean and is now making its way to our shores.

There are over 162 confirmed cases in Florida and cases in Miami Dade County as of June 1, 2016. There is still quite a bit of uncertainty related to this virus.

Here are the facts:

Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito predominantly. However, transmission sexually, through body fluids, and transfusions have also been reported.

The virus is particularly problematic in pregnancy because it can cause serious birth defects. There have also been some reported cases of Guillian Barre Syndrome (a neurological disorder) in connection with this virus.

The time of exposure to the virus and the development of physical symptoms (incubation period) is from 2-14 days). Only 1 in 5 people infected will develop symptoms. These symptoms include fever (usually low grade), fine body rash, joint pains, eye infection, muscle pain, headaches, pain behind the eyes and vomiting.

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Rarely is hospitalization required. Treating the symptoms is the only known treatment. Use Acetaminophen and AVOID ASPRIN.

Remember, the virus is usually contracted through mosquitoes. So since we are in that season where mosquitoes are much more prevalent, we must be mindful of protecting ourselves.

Some simple precautions are trying to avoid going out after dusk and if you do wear protective clothing that covers most of your arms and legs. If this is just too uncomfortable or not possible, use a repellent that contains DEET.

I’m sure more information regarding this virus will be forthcoming in the near future and when it does, I will gladly bring the information to you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Mark Pinsky has been practicing medicine for more than 20 years and is the director of the Pinsky Family and Sports Medicine Center in Viera, Florida, where he provides one-on-one care to his patients.

Dr. Mark Pinsky
Dr. Mark Pinsky

“My goal is to educate patients about their medical conditions so they can learn how to prevent disease or minimize complications from their existing conditions,” said Dr. Pinsky.

Dr. Pinsky is board certified in Family Medicine by the American Academy of Family Medicine and completed his doctorate degree from the University Of Health Sciences College Of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, Missouri. His family practice residency was served at the University of Louisville in Kentucky.

In addition, Dr. Pinsky completed a sports medicine fellowship in Cleveland, Ohio with Lutheran Medical Center in conjunction with Horizon Orthopedics; the team physicians for the Cleveland Indians. He also has a certificate of additional qualifications in Sports Medicine from the American Academy of Family Practice. Dr. Pinsky also speaks nationally for several pharmaceutical companies.

SPORTS MEDICINE VETERAN

Dr. Pinsky has worked closely with high school, college, Olympic and professional athletes. During his 20-year career in Brevard County, Florida, he has served as the team physician for several high schools.

Currently, Dr. Pinsky provides care for Viera High School athletes, and is a partner of Medical Associates of Brevard.

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Dr. Pinsky is dedicated to patient-centered care through MDVIP, a nationwide network of physicians whose sole purpose is to provide superior individualized healthcare.

MDVIP makes patient medical issues their top priority. As an MDVIP physician, Dr. Pinsky takes pride in doing just that for each and every patient in his practice.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Dr. Mark Pinsky log on to PinskyWellness.com

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