Zika Virus Infection

Zika Virus Infection

Zika virus is transmitted to individuals through mosquito bites. The primary symptoms of Zika virus disease include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Typically, the illness is mild, lasting from several days to a week, and severe cases requiring hospitalization are rare.

Transmission

Mosquito Bites:

Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes, which also spread dengue and chikungunya viruses.

• These mosquitoes lay eggs near standing water in containers such as buckets, bowls, and flower pots, and are known to bite both indoors and outdoors during the day and at night.

• Mosquitoes become infected by biting an already infected person and can then spread the virus to others through subsequent bites.

Rare Modes

• Transmission from a mother to her newborn during delivery is possible but uncommon.

• Zika virus transmission during pregnancy is under investigation, and there are no reports of transmission through breastfeeding.

Blood or Sexual Contact

• Transmission through blood transfusion and sexual contact has been documented.

Symptoms

• About 1 in 5 individuals infected with Zika virus develop symptoms, including fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis, muscle pain, and headache.

• The incubation period is typically a few days to a week, and symptoms usually last for several days to a week.

• Zika virus can remain in the blood for a few days to longer periods in some cases.

Diagnosis

• Symptoms of Zika resemble those of dengue and chikungunya, which are also transmitted by the same mosquitoes.

• Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms after visiting an area where Zika is prevalent, and inform healthcare providers of recent travel.

• Blood tests may be conducted to detect Zika or similar viruses.

Treatment

• No vaccine or specific medications are available for preventing or treating Zika infections.

• Symptomatic treatment includes rest, hydration, and pain relief with medications like acetaminophen. Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs until dengue is ruled out to prevent hemorrhage.

• Prevent mosquito bites during the first week of illness when the virus is present in the blood.

Prevention

• No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease; prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites.

• Preventive measures include avoiding mosquito bites, especially during the daytime, and eliminating breeding sites for mosquitoes.