ZIKA VIRUS INFECTION

Zika virus infection is transmitted through mosquitoes ( mainly, Aedes egypti, Aedes. albopictus). It is an RNA virus. Zika virus is the member of virus family Flavivirdae. Most people infected with  Zika virus have no signs and symptoms. But others may reports symptoms like mild fever, rashes, muscle pain, headache, red eyes, general felling of discomfort.

Zika virus infection during Pregnancy have been linked to miscarriage and can cause microcephaly. The Zika virus also may cause other neurological disorders such as Gullian Barre Syndrome.

Mode of Transmission

1)Through infected mosquito bite

2) Through Sexual contact infected person

3) Infected mother to child 

4) Through Blood Transfusion

Signs and Symptoms

4 out 5 people infected with Zika virus has no signs and Symptoms. When symptoms occur it usually begins at 2 to 7 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.

The Signs and Symptoms of Zika Virus includes:

1) Mild Fever

2) Rashes

3) Joint pain

4) Headache

5) Red eyes

Most people recover fully with symptoms resolving in about a week.

Diagnosis

1) PCR Tes

2) Antibody Test

3) Blood and urine culture

Treatment

Symptomatic treatment. The use of Aspirin and NSAIDS should not be initiated until dengue fever is ruled out, as it increase the risk for bleeding.

- Microcephaly: Neurological Stimulation Programmes.

- Guillain Barre Syndrome: Treatment with IV immunoglobulins, Plasmapharasis.

Prevention

- Avoid Mosquito bites.

- Use Mosquito Propalant creams

- Take precaution while travelling to endemic areas.