Yes, it is possible to get Zika virus testing in Bakersfield, as long as you meet the criteria put forth by the California Department of Public Heath. The criteria are as such:

• If you have traveled to an area known to have the Zika virus
• If you have seen mosquitos while you were there
• If you have been in contact with someone known to have the Zika virus
• If you came back with flu-like symptoms (body aches, joint pain, swelling, pink eye)
• If you are pregnant and the baby’s ultrasound showed abnormalities of having a small head
• If your child was born with abnormalities of a small head

Further details can be found here as published by the California Department of Public Health

If you have these symptoms and would like to be evaluated for testing, make an appointment to come in to see one of the doctors at Premier Family Healthcare.  We will go over the criteria, and have to rule out other common infections first.  Then we can submit the criteria for testing to Public Health to see if you can get approved for testing.

Danh H. Nguyen MD