It’s a new threat we haven’t dealt with before and officials say it’s not a matter of if, but when the Zika virus surfaces in our state.
MAP: Areas in the Valley that are being fogged for mosquitos
Arizona already has a confirmed case, but that person contracted the virus while traveling outside the country.
Officials do confirm, the mosquitoes capable of carrying and transmitting the virus are present in the Valley.
West Nile Virus was discovered this year in one of the 750 traps set by Maricopa County Vector control.
“If they're out there doing the work, you know the exposure is there,” said Jessie Atencio, Assistant Director of the Arizona State OSHA.
Atencio says those who work outside, especially pregnant women are the most at risk for Zika virus infection.
The symptoms are noticeable.
“Rash, fever, other type of muscle soreness, or a headache, these are kind of flu like symptoms that should not go unnoticed,” said Atencio.
Maricopa County Vector Control is monitoring hundreds of spots around the valley and they are focused on prevention.
Those efforts include fogging, trapping and asking the public to get rid of standing water around your home.
