Zika Virus: Symptoms, Prevention, History and Treatment

Zika Virus cases are on the rise in Maharashtra, and the Central Government has asked the states to spread constant awareness about the disease. Zika Virus is a severe condition, especially for pregnant women, as it can reach the fetus and cause multiple congenital conditions that can be fatal for the baby.

Zika Virus or Zika Fever is a condition caused by certain mosquitos, like Aedes. These mosquitos are mostly active in the mornings and also cause diseases like dengue and chikungunya. The condition is severe for pregnant women, which is why the government advisory especially mentioned that extra care needs to be taken for pregnant females who test positive for the infection.

Why?

It is because if a pregnant female is diagnosed with the condition, the infection might reach the fetus, and the fetus can go through congenital conditions which can be life-threatening or can even result in stillbirths or miscarriages.

Sounds Scary, right?

That is why, with the rise in the number of Zika Virus cases, people need to take extra care of themselves and anyone around them who is pregnant. But before you do anything, you must know what the infection is and what symptoms one might look for.

What is Zika Virus?

The Zika virus is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. It was discovered in 1947 in the Zika Forest of Uganda and remained relatively low-key until major outbreaks occurred in the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and the Americas in the 21st century. 

The virus has gained significant attention due to its rapid spread and association with severe congenital disabilities. However, most people only know the name of the disease and nothing else about it. This blog will help you better understand the condition, its symptoms, treatments, and all the necessary information to help you be aware and mindful of it.

How is the Virus Transmitted?

Zika is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, specifically Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes also spread infections like dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever.

• Mosquito Bites: The primary transmission mode is through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.
• Mother-to-Child: A pregnant woman can pass the virus to her fetus, leading to congenital Zika syndrome.
• Sexual Transmission: Sexual Contact with the person infected can also lead to the transfer of diseases.
• Blood Transfusion: Though rare, the Zika virus can be transmitted through blood transfusions.
• Laboratory Exposure: In rare instances, laboratory exposure has led to infections.

If you are aware of how a disease is transmitted, it makes it easier for you to take preventive measures to keep yourself away from the infection anyway. Knowing the symptoms of the disease also helps in identifying the condition and treating it accordingly.

What are the symptoms of Zika Virus?

Zika virus infection can be mild or severe, and the symptoms differ accordingly. This is how

• Common Symptoms:

Zika virus infection often presents mild symptoms, typically lasting several days to a week. Common symptoms include:

• Mild fever is one of the most frequent symptoms.
• A maculopapular rash, which is flat or slightly raised red spots, usually appears.
• Arthralgia, particularly in the small joints of hands and feet, is common.
•  Red eyes or conjunctivitis are frequently observed.
• Myalgia or muscle pain is a common complaint.
• Mild headaches can accompany other symptoms.

• Asymptomatic Cases:

Many people infected with the Zika virus do not exhibit any symptoms, making it challenging to control the spread as asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the virus.

Complications Associated with Zika Virus:

Multiple complications can occur with a person who has been infected with the Zika virus, and some of those are mentioned here:

• Congenital Zika Syndrome:

One of the most severe complications of Zika virus infection is congenital Zika syndrome, a pattern of congenital disabilities in infants born to mothers infected during pregnancy. Key features include:

• Microcephaly: A significant reduction in head size and brain development.
• Brain Abnormalities: Brain malformations and impaired brain growth.
• Eye Defects: Vision problems due to eye defects.
• Hearing Loss: Hearing impairment or loss.
• Joint Problems: Limited range of joint motion or joint contractures.

•  Guillain-Barre Syndrome:

Zika virus infection has been associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder where the body’s immune system attacks nerve cells, leading to muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. The exact mechanism linking Zika to GBS is not fully understood.

• Other Complications:

While rare, other potential complications include:

• Meningoencephalitis: It’s a condition in which the surroundings of the brain membrane are inflamed.
• Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord.

Treatment for Zika Virus:

•  Avoiding Mosquito Bites:

To avoid spreading the Zika virus, it is important to prevent mosquito breeding at all costs. There are multiple ways in which this can be done. Key measures include:

• Insect Repellents: Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing picardin, DEET, or lemon eucalyptus oil.
• Protective Clothing: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants to minimise skin exposure.
• Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito nets while sleeping, especially in areas with high mosquito activity.

Screened Windows and Doors: Ensuring windows and doors have intact screens to keep mosquitoes out.

• Eliminating Mosquito Breeding Sites:

Reducing mosquito populations involves eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed:

• Emptying Containers: Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that hold water, such as buckets, flowerpots, and birdbaths.
• Proper Disposal: Disposing of old tyres, cans, and other items that can collect water.
• Cleaning Gutters: Keeping gutters clean and debris-free to prevent water accumulation.

• Travel Precautions:

Travellers to areas with active Zika virus transmission should take additional precautions:

• Pre-Travel Consultation: Consulting healthcare providers before traveling to Zika-endemic regions.
• Travel Alerts: Staying informed about travel advisories and areas with ongoing outbreaks.

•  Sexual Transmission Prevention:

To prevent sexual transmission of Zika virus:

• Condom Use: Using condoms consistently and correctly during sex with a partner who may have been exposed to the virus.
• Abstinence: Abstaining from sexual activity during and after travel to Zika-affected areas.

Breakthroughs Around Zika Virus:

•  Vaccine Research:

Significant efforts are underway to develop a safe and effective Zika virus vaccine. Several vaccine candidates are in various stages of clinical trials, including:

• DNA Vaccines: Plasmid DNA vaccines that encode Zika virus proteins to elicit an immune response.
• Inactivated Vaccines: Vaccines using inactivated Zika virus particles.
• Vector-Based Vaccines: Vaccines using viral vectors to deliver Zika virus antigens.

• Antiviral Treatments:

Research also focuses on identifying antiviral drugs that can treat Zika virus infection. Potential treatments aim to inhibit viral replication and mitigate symptoms.

• Vector Control Innovations:

Innovative vector control strategies are being explored to reduce mosquito populations and limit Zika virus transmission, including:

• Genetically Modified Mosquitoes: Releasing genetically modified mosquitoes that produce offspring with reduced survival rates.
• Sterile Insect Technique: Releasing sterilised male mosquitoes to reduce the mosquito population through unsuccessful mating.

Conclusion:

The Zika virus remains a significant public health concern due to its ability to cause severe congenital disabilities and neurological complications. Understanding the virus's transmission, symptoms, and complications is essential for effective prevention and control. While notable progress has been made in vaccine development and vector control, ongoing research and public health efforts are critical to reduce the impact of Zika virus outbreaks. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from this formidable virus.