Zika Virus

Zika virus is an illness caused by a virus that can spread through mosquitoes, intercourse, or from the mother to the fetus during pregnancy. It was first identified in 1947 in Uganda in a Rhesus macaque monkey and later found in humans across the globe. This article will cover the Zika virus, its symptoms, complications, and preventative methods.

What is Zika Virus?

Zika virus, also known as Zika fever, is a viral illness. It is primarily spread through the Aedes mosquito and is caused by a virus that uses the human body’s cells to duplicate itself. Many people infected with this virus do not exhibit any signs—only about 1 out of 5 people show symptoms.

The first case of this virus infecting a human was reported in 1952. Since then, there have been several periodic outbreaks of Zika fever. However, the disease can also be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusions, and from pregnant women to the fetus.

What Causes Zika Virus?

Zika fever is caused by a flavivirus (usually spread through mosquitoes). This RNA virus is also responsible for dengue fever and West Nile infection. Several individual and destination-related factors may increase one’s risk of contracting the Zika virus. Its leading causes include:

1. Mosquitoes

The primary method of transmission for Zika fever is through mosquitoes, mainly the Aedes mosquito. It spreads when the Aedes mosquito bites an infected individual and then bites another person. These mosquitoes are found anywhere in the world, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions or areas with high humidity.

2. Pregnant Women to the Fetus

Zika virus and pregnancy have been a point of concern since the virus can pass on to the fetus through the placenta. Significant complications of this virus have been observed in babies born from mothers who contracted it. According to the World Health Organisation, about 15-20% of infants born to women infected with Zika virus had congenital birth complications. It can also lead to stillbirths, fetal losses, or preterm births in some cases.

3. Sexual Contact

Zika virus can stay present in bodily fluids for several weeks or months after infection. It can be present in those with or without symptoms and can spread through fluids such as semen or vaginal fluids. The CDC recommends that people planning for pregnancy assess the Zika virus risk in places they live or may travel to.

4. Blood Transfusions

Blood transfusions can put one at risk in rare cases, as the Zika virus remains in a person’s bloodstream for prolonged periods and can thus be transmitted through blood transfusions.

What are the Symptoms of Zika Virus?

While symptoms are rare, some start showing Zika virus symptoms between 3 to 14 days after being infected. Immunocompromised people or those who have comorbidities are at risk of developing severe symptoms. Signs can include:

– Fever

– Joint pain

– Headaches

– Conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye)

– Itchy rashes

– Fatigue or tiredness

The virus can spread for up to six weeks after symptoms start. It can also cause more severe conditions, such as microcephaly and congenital issues, or Guillain-Barré syndrome:

– Microcephaly and other Congenital Problems

Microcephaly is one of the significant conditions observed in fetuses from mothers infected with Zika virus. It is a neurological condition where the infant’s head is smaller than average.

– Guillain-Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare neurological condition where the immune system attacks the nerves. This causes weakness, numbness, or paralysis.

What are the Tests for Zika Virus?

There are two possible types of tests for identifying Zika virus:

1. Molecular Tests

Molecular tests look for genetic materials from the Zika virus in a blood and urine sample. It is recommended for pregnant individuals.

2. Antibody Tests

Antibody tests check for antibodies that fight the Zika virus in the blood. Antibodies are proteins the immune system creates to fight certain viruses. It can be done within a week of symptoms starting.

How Can Zika Virus Be Prevented?

There is no vaccine for the Zika virus yet. The main ways to prevent infection are to avoid mosquito bites, use mosquito repellants, wear full-sleeved clothing, and use screen doors on windows or doors. Practising safety practices during sexual contact, such as condoms, also reduces the risk of infection.

Zika virus treatments include drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, resting, and taking fever and pain medications. If an individual, especially a pregnant person, is exhibiting symptoms related to the Zika virus, it is essential to consult a medical professional. Doctors may order blood, urine, or saliva tests to diagnose Zika fever accurately. To book a Zika virus test, visit Dr Lal PathLabs’ website today.

FAQs

1. How is Zika transmitted?

Zika virus is transmitted mainly through the bite of the Aedes mosquito. It can also spread through blood, sexual contact, or from a pregnant person to a fetus.