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Researcher Accidentally Infects Herself With Zika Virus

1 minute read
An Aedes aegypti mosquito is photographed inside a mosquito cage at the Fiocruz institute where they have been screening for mosquitos naturally infected with the Zika virus in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Monday, May 23, 2016. As opposed to artificially infected mosquito in labs, the institute found Aedes aegypti mosquitos that were naturally infected, confirming scientists suspicion that the Aedes aegypti is indeed a vector for Zika. (AP Photo/Felipe Dana)
An Aedes aegypti mosquito is photographed inside a mosquito cage at the Fiocruz institute in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on May 23, 2016.Felipe Dana—AP
By Rosalie Chan

A University of Pittsburgh researcher accidentally infected herself with the Zika virus.

While conducting a lab experiment with the virus on May 23, the researcher pricked herself with a needle. Nine days later, she started experiencing symptoms, including a fever. She later tested positive for Zika, CNN reports. Since then, her symptoms have resolved, the Allegheny County Health Department said.

“We want to remind residents that, despite this rare incident, there is still no current risk of contracting Zika from mosquitos in Allegheny County. For those traveling to countries affected by the Zika virus, we urge caution,” said Dr. Karen Hacker, director of the Allegheny County Health Department, in a statement.

Dr. Hacker advised pregnant women to avoid traveling to countries affected by the Zika virus, and the health department encouraged local residents to protect themselves by wearing insect repellant containing DEET and removing standing water from property.

[CNN]

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