Zika virus—what older adults need to know

Zika virus has been in the news a lot lately. You’ve probably heard about the negative health effects for pregnant women and newborn babies. But, do older adults need to worry about Zika? Zika may have specific implications for older adults. You should know: As people age, their immune systems weaken. It may be more difficult for an older person to recover from Zika than a younger person. It may also make the body more susceptible to other illnesses. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is associated both with older age and Zika virus. GBS is a rare disorder that can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and in severe cases, death. Risk for GBS increases with age, and people age 50 and older are most affected. Age does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. During sex, Zika can be passed from a person who has the virus to his or her sex partners. No matter how old you are, you should practice safe sex and use condoms if you or your partner have recently traveled to an area where Zika is found. Get more information about Zika virus and older adults—including transmission, symptoms, treatment, and prevention. Share this information on social media: Twitter: What do older adults need to know about #Zika virus? Find out here: http://bit.ly/2g151IW Facebook: We know Zika affects pregnant women and newborns, but do older adults need to worry about the virus? Check out these tips from the National Institute on Aging about Zika virus and its implications for older adults, who may be particularly vulnerable. http://bit.ly/2g10Dd9