The Pennsylvania Department of Health informed Lehigh that a student who traveled abroad over winter break tested positive for the Zika virus, according to an email from John Smeaton, the vice provost of Student Affairs.
The student has recovered and is feeling well. The Health and Wellness Center has been in direct contact with state health officials. There is no additional health risk to anyone on campus, according to Smeaton.
The virus, which is spread through mosquito bites, is characterized by symptoms of fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Zika has garnered attention in recent months, with outbreaks occurring in many countries, particularly in Central and South America.
As of Feb. 3, there have been 35 cases of travel-associated Zika virus cases reported in the United States within the past year.
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