First Case Of Zika In Pregnant Woman Confirmed In St. Croix

ST. CROIX — The Virgin Islands Department of Health confirmed on Tuesday the territory’s first case of Zika virus in a pregnant woman. The incident was once again confirmed in St. Croix, bringing the island’s total Zika virus cases to 13 and 14 territory-wide, with only one case so far in St. Thomas.

According to a press release issued this afternoon, D.O.H, says the latest incident was not unexpected, adding that it expects to see more positive cases in the future.

The pregnant woman had no travel history, and was 34 weeks pregnant when she tested positive for the virus. She has since delivered a healthy baby with normal head circumference and showing no signs of microcephaly, according to the release. D.O.H. says it will continue to monitor the mother and child’s progress over the next several weeks.

“Both Zika and dengue are potentially dangerous for pregnant women. Zika may be associated with birth defects (microcephaly), and pregnant women are at higher risk of severe complications from dengue fever,” said D.O.H. Commissioner Nominee Michelle S. Davis. “Any pregnant woman experiencing symptoms should see their healthcare provider for evaluation. They should also avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, or aspirin-containing drugs until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of hemorrhage. Pregnant women who have a fever should be treated with acetaminophen (Paracetamol or Tylenol®.) as it is not associated with increased risk for hemorrhagic complications.”

Zika has been confirmed to be transmitted sexually, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends that pregnant women in areas with active Zika transmission, including those living in the territory, should either use condoms the right way every time they have sex or they should not have sex during the pregnancy. Sexual transmission of dengue has not been confirmed, but it is theoretically possible, according to D.O.H.

The department added that since both dengue and Zika cases are currently present in theterritory, all people, but especially pregnant women and their sexual partners, should enhance their efforts to reduce their risk of becoming infected.

Here are some Zika prevention tips.