The WHO says Zika will get worse before it gets better - from TRUNEWS

(TRUNEWS) The World Health Organization predicts the Zika virus outbreak may get worse before it gets better.

The virus has spread to more than 46 countries and is believed to be behind the recent uptick in cases of microcephaly, according to The Telegraph.

“We are dealing with a tricky virus full of uncertainties, so we should be prepared for surprises,” said Margaret Chan, head of WHO.

Zika is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is present in more than 130 countries.    It causes flu-like symptoms. The biggest potential harm is to unborn children.

There is panic in Brazil where hundreds of babies were born last year with microcephaly, a birth defect causing smaller heads and brains that hinder a child’s development.   Microcephaly can cause seizures, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities and vision problems.

Hilda Venancio bathes her son Matheus, who has microcephaly, in Recife, Brazil, January 27, 2016. REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino

There is no definitive proof microcephaly is caused by Zika, but experts think there is a strong possibility.

Brazil has responded by educating citizens about the threat of mosquitos breeding through standing water, and the mass spraying of pesticides.

Nearby Columbia has reported 37,000 Zika infections, including 6300 pregnant women.

In the U.S., there are about 90 cases. Most people caught it while traveling, but it is believed to be sexually transmitted in about 14 instances.  Florida has the most infections.

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