Shah says Zika risk low

Posted on May 14, 2016
Protection of mosquitoes is important as some bring disease. (Flickr)
Protection against mosquitoes is important as some bring disease. (Flickr)

By Terry James

Illinois Department of Public Health Director Nirav Shah said the risk is low when it comes to a widespread outbreak of the Zika Virus in Illinois. However, he said his eyes are wide open.

“We don’t think the risk of Zika virus is a significant one, we think it’s a low risk overall, but that doesn’t mean we are sitting on our hands,” said Shah. “Our eyes are wide open and we are really engaged in making sure that assessment stays true.”

Illinois U.S. Senator Dick Durbin is pushing for more funding to protect the state.

The Zika virus has had a major impact on central America causing birth defects in newborns.

Shah is advising Illinoisans to protect themselves from mosquitoes as the West Nile Virus is a real threat.

He advises wearing long sleeves, long pants, and using a repellent that contains deet.

Terry James can be reached at [email protected].

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