Zika Virus

What is the Zika Virus?

Also known as Zika fever, this condition is spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquito species. These viruses, which replicate using host cells, do not always cause symptoms. In pregnant individuals, the virus can inhibit proper brain development.

The Zika virus is found in many regions worldwide, particularly prevalent in the Americas, the Caribbean, Africa, and some parts of Asia. Outbreaks caused by the virus can occasionally occur. While the virus may cause mild symptoms in adults and children, it poses risks to pregnant women due to its effect on the fetus.

How Zika Virus Spreads

A type of flavivirus, Zika is an RNA virus commonly spread by mosquitoes. It is part of the same family as viruses that cause dengue fever and West Nile infection.

There are several factors that contribute to the spread of the Zika virus. These include:

• Mosquito bites are the most common transmission route. These mosquito species are found in many regions worldwide.
• Pregnant women can transmit the infection to their babies.
• The Zika virus can also be transmitted sexually. The virus can remain in body fluids even if symptoms are absent or have subsided.
• In Brazil and France, there have been reports of Zika transmission through blood transfusions.

Some studies have shown that the disease can be sexually transmitted up to six weeks after symptoms appear.

Symptoms of the Zika Virus

Symptoms caused by the Zika virus appear in one out of every five infected individuals. Possible symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Redness in the whites of the eyes
• A rash consisting of raised and flat red areas combined with itching

Diagnosis Criteria for Zika Virus

Zika diagnostic tests are administered to individuals in Zika-prone areas. These tests are performed on blood or urine samples. Recent travel history is often queried during the test.

Treatment Methods for Zika Virus

There is no specific medication to cure Zika, but treatments can be recommended to manage symptoms. Additionally, suggestions are made to prevent the spread of the virus. Pregnant individuals should also consult with obstetricians.

Symptom control for Zika virus infections often involves over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen. Aspirin and NSAIDs should not be used unless recommended by a doctor, as they may pose a serious risk of bleeding.

Zika virus infections generally resolve on their own. However, if pregnant individuals are infected, it can lead to permanent conditions present at birth, such as vision loss or improper brain development.

How Zika Virus Affects Pregnant Women

If exposed to the Zika virus during pregnancy, both the mother and baby should be closely monitored throughout the process. After birth, the baby should be tested for the Zika virus.

Zika virus can cause health issues such as abnormalities in brain development, although these are difficult to detect before birth. However, preparation for potential problems is possible.

About 5% of babies born to Zika-infected mothers may have congenital disorders. These disorders include:

• Smaller than average head size (also known as microcephaly).
• Severe microcephaly, partly collapsed skull, reduced brain tissue, joint problems, and increased muscle tone, which are conditions that can be caused by Zika syndrome.
• Improper brain development may occur. This can include neural tube defects, lack of brain folds, hydrocephaly, incomplete brain structure, brain atrophy, and other issues.
• Cerebral palsy
• Vision and hearing issues
• Low birth weight