The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that causes mild symptoms similar to those of dengue and fever. It can also lead to various foetal complications in pregnant women. It was initially identified in Uganda in 1947 but has caused several outbreaks in other countries.
During the monsoon, cases can rise, making it even more essential to control during this season. In this blog, we’ll explore what this virus is all about, how it spreads, zika virus symptoms, its treatment options, and how to prevent infection.
Zika Virus Infection
Primarily, the Zika virus is spread by mosquitoes. Humans can get it through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species mosquito, the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya.
These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon.
Understanding how this virus is spread is essential for its prevention. Other than a mosquito bite, it can be transmitted through:
- Sexual transmission: The virus can be passed from a person with Zika to their partner during sex.
- Pregnancy: A pregnant woman infected with Zika can transmit the virus to her foetus, which can result in severe birth defects.
- Blood transfusion: Although rare, Zika transmission through blood has been documented in a number of cases.
Zika Virus Infection During Pregnancy
Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a major health concern because the virus can cross the placenta and affect the developing foetus.
While most adults experience only mild symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain, the impact on an unborn baby can be far more serious.
As per CDC, the data from U.S. states indicate that about 5% of babies born to mothers with confirmed or possible Zika infection during pregnancy exhibited birth defects like microcephaly, problems with brain development, difficulty in swallowing, vision or hearing issues, decreased joint movement, or stiff muscles. The risk is particularly elevated when infection occurs in the first or second trimester, with approximately 8% of first-trimester infections leading to Zika-related birth defects.
The risk is greatest if the infection occurs in the first trimester, when critical brain development takes place.
This makes early prevention and protection from mosquito bites essential for expecting mothers.
Zika Virus Symptoms
In many cases, being infected with Zika does not show any specific symptoms or symptoms that last long. These symptoms only last from a couple of days to a week.
Take a look at the common Zika virus transmission symptoms:
- Fever
- Rash
- Headache
- Joint and muscle pain
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
- Fatigue or general discomfort
These are also called Zika disease symptoms. These symptoms are similar to those experienced in dengue and chikungunya, so proper tests need to be done for accurate diagnosis.
How Dangerous is Zika?
As per StatPearls, Zika infection is usually mild in healthy adults and doesn’t require specific treatment. However, it can lead to potential complications in some situations, as follows:
- Microcephaly in newborns: This happens when the unborn baby gets this virus from the mother, leading to a serious birth defect called microcephaly. It can hinder the development of the baby’s head, resulting in a smaller-than-expected head size due to abnormal brain development.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): In cases like the French Polynesian outbreak, it was suspected that the Zika virus led to the Guillain-Barré syndrome in many people. In this rare condition, the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.
Zika Virus Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Zika disease. Mild cases typically resolve on their own with rest and supportive care. If you feel a mild fever and other symptoms, do this:
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay hydrated
- Take paracetamol for pain and fever
- Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) until dengue is ruled out (to prevent internal bleeding)
Antibiotics are not effective against Zika, as it is caused by a virus, not bacteria. If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to Zika, seek immediate medical advice.
Read More: Zoonotic Diseases: Examples, Types and Prevention Strategies
Zika Virus Prevention
Because there is no vaccine or specific cure, prevention is the best strategy for fighting against this virus. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Avoid Mosquito Bites
- Use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin.
- Cover your arms and legs during the morning and evening.
- Use mosquito nets while sleeping.
- Keep doors and windows closed at night or install mesh screens.
- Empty any vessels or objects that may store water in the monsoon and become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Safe Sex Practices
- Use condoms during sex, especially if your partner has recently travelled to a Zika-affected area.
- Avoid sex if you or your partner shows symptoms.
Travel Cautions
- Pregnant women should avoid travelling to areas where Zika outbreaks are ongoing.
- Stay updated on Zika travel advisories issued by local or global health authorities.
| From the World Health Organisation
Using mosquito repellent products containing ingredients like N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), IR3535, or Icaridin can help control mosquitoes and the spread of Zika. |
To Sum Up
The Zika virus may not cause noticeable symptoms in most people, but it has an impact on those with weak immunity, pregnant women, and their unborn children. Although there is no definitive cure for Zika virus, awareness, noticing zika disease symptoms, prevention techniques, and timely medical attention can greatly reduce the risks associated with this disease.
