One of the latest symptoms attributed to the Zika virus epidemic is temporary paralysis. Doctors have noticed an extreme increase of Guillain- Barre syndrome in patients from Brazil, El Salvador and Venezuela; all places that have had large outbreaks of Zika. Guillain-Barre is a debilitating illness that leaves patients unable to move. In extreme cases, patients are forced to be put on full life support because of trouble breathing. Although most people suffering from Guillain- Barre often regain full mobility, the disease can be fatal.  At first, officials believed that only pregnant women were to worry about the virus, however, the World Health Organization has declared the virus an international public health emergency. The virus was initially thought to be spread by insect bites but, it has been confirmed that  multiple cases of Zika were spread through unprotected sex.  It is believed that as many as 4 million people could be infected by the end of this year.The most common symptoms of Zika include  fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes. Zika is extremely dangerous because many people tend to show no symptoms at all.

“I think that everyone should be very cautious about the outbreak,” says Junior Maddie Acampora. “I plan on taking precaution and not traveling anywhere the virus is known to be a problem.” Others, such as junior Michelle Lee, feel that it is necessary to aid these countries in the fight against Zika. “If I ever had the opportunity to go help infected countries, I would love to,” says Lee. “It would be amazing to be able to help spread awareness and assist in any way I can.” Although there is no known cure for Zika as of now, treatment of the virus focuses on relieving the symptoms through rehydration and lots of rest.