Zika Virus

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys and was later found in humans in 1952. Zika infection is generally mild, with symptoms including fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. However, many people with Zika virus infection may not develop noticeable symptoms.

The medical community has raised concerns about Zika virus due to its potential link to neurological complications. In particular, it is associated with microcephaly—a condition where a baby is born with a smaller head and brain damage—when women are infected during pregnancy. In addition, Zika has been implicated in causing Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that can lead to paralysis. Prevention strategies focus on avoiding mosquito bites in areas where Zika is found, controlling mosquito populations, and taking precautions such as using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in places with air conditioning or window and door screens. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Zika virus infection, and treatment is typically supportive, aimed at relieving symptoms.