Summary about Disease
Zika virus infection is a disease caused by the Zika virus, primarily spread through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes. While many infections are asymptomatic, when symptoms do occur, they are generally mild and include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects, most notably microcephaly.
Symptoms
Fever
Rash
Joint pain (especially in the small joints of the hands and feet)
Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
Muscle pain
Headache Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms. Symptoms typically last for several days to a week.
Causes
The Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes species mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti and *Aedes albopictus*. These mosquitoes also transmit dengue fever and chikungunya. Zika virus can also be spread through:
Sexual contact with an infected person
From a pregnant woman to her fetus
Blood transfusion (very rare)
Laboratory exposure
Medicine Used
There is no specific antiviral medication to treat Zika virus infection. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:
Rest
Drink plenty of fluids
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to reduce fever and pain. Avoid aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) until dengue fever has been ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding.
If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.
Is Communicable
Yes, Zika virus infection is communicable. It can be spread through:
Mosquito bites (from infected mosquitoes to humans)
Sexual contact (from infected person to another person)
From a pregnant woman to her fetus
Blood transfusion (very rare)
Precautions
Prevent Mosquito Bites:
Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Always follow product instructions.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out.
Reduce mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from containers such as buckets, flowerpots, and tires.
Prevent Sexual Transmission:
Use condoms correctly from start to finish every time you have sex, or do not have sex.
If you are pregnant and your partner has traveled to an area with Zika, use condoms correctly from start to finish every time you have sex, or do not have sex for the duration of your pregnancy.
Pregnant Women:
Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with Zika. If travel is unavoidable, take strict precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
Pregnant women who live in or travel to areas with Zika should be tested for Zika virus infection.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a Zika outbreak can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
Environmental Conditions: Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall often lead to larger mosquito populations, potentially prolonging outbreaks.
Mosquito Control Efforts: Aggressive mosquito control measures (spraying, eliminating breeding sites) can shorten the duration of an outbreak.
Public Health Response: Prompt diagnosis, surveillance, and public education efforts can help contain the spread of the virus.
Population Immunity: As more people become infected and develop immunity, the outbreak may naturally subside.
Introduction of New Cases: Continued importation of Zika virus cases into an area can prolong the outbreak. Outbreaks can last for several months to over a year.
How is it diagnosed?
Zika virus infection is diagnosed through laboratory testing of blood or urine. Tests can detect:
Zika Virus RNA: These tests (RT-PCR) can detect the virus genetic material in the blood or urine. These tests are most accurate when performed close to the onset of symptoms.
Zika Virus Antibodies: Antibody tests (IgM and IgG) can detect antibodies that the body produces in response to the infection. These tests may have cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses (like dengue), so additional testing might be needed. Healthcare providers determine the appropriate testing based on the patient's symptoms, travel history, and potential exposure.
Timeline of Symptoms
Incubation Period: The incubation period (time from mosquito bite to symptom onset) for Zika virus is estimated to be 3-14 days.
Symptom Duration: When symptoms occur, they usually last for several days to a week.
Recovery: Most people fully recover without complications.
Important Considerations
Pregnancy: Zika virus infection during pregnancy poses a serious risk to the fetus, potentially leading to microcephaly and other birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with Zika and take strict precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
Sexual Transmission: Zika virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, even if the infected person does not have symptoms. Use condoms correctly or abstain from sex to prevent transmission.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): There is evidence linking Zika virus infection to an increased risk of GBS, a rare autoimmune disorder that can cause muscle weakness and paralysis.
Prevention is Key: The best way to prevent Zika virus infection is to avoid mosquito bites.
Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you develop symptoms of Zika virus infection, especially if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and guidance.