Zika Virus- Emily Eppig 8th Period

The recent rise in Zika virus cases had placed the epidemic as a level 1 on the CDC's emergency operations scale. The disease, which is transmitted mainly by mosquitoes, causes severe birth defects and brain conditions. Although its origins are in South America, the virus has been spreading at an exponential rate and is now a "global health threat" according to the World Health Organization. 

This story is similar to the many epidemics that have spread worldwide, wiping out millions of people. The Black Plague in Europe and the diseases, like smallpox, that conquistadors and colonists brought over that killed most of the Native American population are just a few examples.

 The key to stopping something like that from happening again is scientific study and preventative measures. Centuries ago they didn't have the resources and information that we do now to learn more about diseases and put a stop to them. 

Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/zika-virus-outbreak-prompts-cdc-activate-highest-emergency/story?id=36796510