The Zika virus is all over the news, drawing a lot of attention to the virus and its effects. The virus is mosquito transmitted and originated from Brazil and is slowly making its way to the United States.

“It’s starting in other countries and the concern is that it is spreading to the Americas. We’re seeing it here now,” school nurse Emily Mikeska said. “I’m not saying that we are seeing it here in Frisco but it has entered the United States. It’s getting national attention and we do have lots of students in our population who do visit other countries and travel a lot.”

The Zika virus affects pregnant woman and can cause birth defects. Symptoms include fever, rash and muscle aches. According the Medical Center of Plano, there have been no diagnosed cases of Zika virus in Americans who have not traveled to Central and South America or the Caribbean.

“I am sharing the information as far as awareness,” Mikeska said. “It does appear that it takes 2 weeks after exposure before you might start seeing symptoms and our biggest concern is that woman who may be pregnant and for their unborn child.”