Zika virus, also called Zika fever, is a type of virus carried by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. It is usually transmitted from person to person through the bite of mosquitoes, but sexual contact and mother-to-child transmission are also possible. It can cause mild symptoms in infected people, but can adversely affect fetal development in pregnant women and lead to birth defects such as microcephaly. It has also been associated with neurological problems such as Guillian-Barre syndrome.
Pregnant women traveling in areas where the virus is prevalent and couples planning a pregnancy should be careful. Protection from mosquito bites, prevention of sexual transmission and safe pregnancy measures are important to limit the spread of this virus.
How is the Zika virus transmitted?
The Zika virus can be transmitted in several different ways, primarily by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes:
Mosquito Bites: When you are bitten by an infected mosquito, it enters your blood. This is the natural cycle of the virus. When you are bitten by an infected mosquito, the virus passes into the human body.
Sexual Transmission: It can also be transmitted through sexual contact. An infected person can transmit the virus to their partner through sexual intercourse. Therefore, couples planning pregnancy or pregnant women should be careful and use contraception.
Transmission from Mother to Baby: It can be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby. This can cause the fetus to have birth defects and problems such as microcephaly.
Blood Transfusions and Organ Transplants: In rare cases, the blood or organs of an infected person can be passed from one person to another. This is why blood donations and organ transplants are carefully screened.
Laboratory Contact: Healthcare workers or laboratory personnel working with Zika virus can become infected when they come into contact with infected materials.
It is endemic, especially in mosquito-populated areas, and transmission through mosquito bites is the most common route. Therefore, it is important to take precautions to protect against mosquito bites when traveling or living in the areas. It is also important to use contraception during sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of sexual transmission.
Which countries are affected by the Zika virus?
The Zika virus was first discovered in 1947 in the Zika Forests of Uganda. It then spread to Asia, the Pacific Islands and South America from the 1950s. In 2015, there was a major outbreak in Brazil and cases of microcephaly due to Zika virus increased.
The regions where this virus is prevalent may change over time. As of 2021, it is still endemic in certain regions and may pose a risk to travelers:
- Some regions in South and Central America,
- Some regions in the Caribbean,
- Some regions in Southeast Asia.
However, this information may be updated over time, so it is important to follow current travel health advisories and warnings if you are considering traveling. Also, those planning a pregnancy or pregnant women should exercise caution and seek advice from health professionals if considering traveling to these areas.
How to Prevent Zika Virus?
You can take the following precautions to protect yourself from the Zika virus:
Protection from Mosquito Bites: Wear clothing that covers the body to protect against mosquito bites. Protect open skin areas with insect repellent lotions or sprays. Use netting or mosquito nets when sleeping.
Traveling: If you plan to travel to areas where it is prevalent, consult travel health experts before traveling and follow travel health recommendations.
Preventing Sexual Transmission: Use condoms or other protective methods to prevent sexual transmission, especially important for those planning a pregnancy or pregnant women.
Caution in Pregnancy: Women planning a pregnancy or who are pregnant should avoid traveling to areas where the virus is transmitted. If travel to these areas is necessary, protection from mosquito bites and measures to prevent sexual transmission should be taken.
Blood Transfusions: Before receiving blood or blood products, check that medical health facilities use advanced screening and testing methods.
Laboratory Work: Healthcare workers, laboratory personnel and other relevant persons working with Zika virus should strictly follow safety precautions.
These precautions can help protect against the virus. These precautions are especially important for people who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of Zika virus?
Symptoms are usually mild and can last from 2 to 7 days. Many people experience no symptoms or have very mild symptoms. However, symptoms of Zika virus infection can include
- Fever,
- Rash
- Joint and muscle pains,
- Conjunctivitis (red eyes) may occur.
What problems can the Zika virus cause in pregnant women?
The virus can cause serious problems in pregnant women. Its transmission from a pregnant woman to a fetus can adversely affect the development and health of the fetus. Here are some important consequences of Zika virus infection that can lead to problems associated with pregnancy:
Microcephaly: When passed from mother to fetus, especially in early pregnancy, it can cause a condition called microcephaly in the baby.
Other Related Problems: Infection with the virus can cause problems with the baby's eyes and ears, neurological problems, congenital joint contractures (joint deformities) and other congenital abnormalities.
How is Zika virus diagnosed?
Zika virus is diagnosed with laboratory tests. The presence of the virus is detected in blood, urine and semen. Placenta or fetal material samples can also be used. Since the symptoms of Zika virus are similar to other infections, diagnostic tests are especially important for pregnant women or those with a history of travel. Diagnosis and testing is carried out by health professionals and expertise is required in interpreting the results. It is important to consult a healthcare professional in case of suspicion.
Zika Virus Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Zika virus. Treatment of Zika virus infection is limited to symptomatic support. The following measures can be taken to alleviate symptoms and support the body:
- Symptoms are usually mild, but it is important for the infected person to rest and get enough sleep.
- It is important to drink plenty of water to prevent body fluid loss and maintain hydration.
- Painkillers or antipyretics can be used to relieve headache, muscle pain and fever. However, it is important to consult a health professional about the use of medication.
- Topical creams or lotions can be used to relieve itching and reduce skin rashes. However, it is not recommended to use medication without consulting a doctor.
Pregnant women in particular should take precautions against mosquito bites to avoid the risk of Zika virus infection. They should also review their travel plans during their pregnancy.