Zika Virus Early Signs and How to Avoid Infection

The Zika virus is a growing concern worldwide. In 1947, this virus was first discovered in Uganda. It was mainly in Africa and Asia until it spread globally. Since 2007, it has been reported in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific.

This virus is spreading fast, affecting public health and healthcare systems everywhere. It’s important to know how it impacts health and the challenges it brings.

Overview of Zika Virus

History of Zika Virus

The history of the Zika virus began in 1947. It was first found in a rhesus macaque monkey in Uganda’s Zika Forest. By the 1950s, people in Africa were showing signs of Zika virus infection.

Zika Virus
Source: Canva

From the 1960s to the 1980s, more cases were found in Africa and Asia. This showed how the virus was spreading.

The first major virus outbreak happened in 2007 on Yap Island. This was followed by outbreaks in French Polynesia in 2013-2014 and Brazil in 2015-2016. These outbreaks spread to other parts of the Americas and the world, showing the virus’s global impact and rapid spread.

YearEventLocation
1947Zika virus first identifiedZika Forest, Uganda
1950sEvidence of human Zika virus infectionOther African countries
1960s-1980sSporadic human Zika virus infections detectedAfrica and Asia
2007First major Zika virus outbreakBrazil, the Americas, and Globally
2013-2014Larger Zika virus outbreakYap, Federated States of Micronesia
2015-2016French PolynesiaBrazil, the Americas,and Globally

Transmission and Symptoms

The virus spreads mainly through infected Aedes mosquitoes, like Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes bite during the day. This makes Zika virus transmission a big concern in tropical and subtropical areas. The virus can also spread from mother to fetus, through sex, blood transfusions, and maybe organ transplants.

Infected people may feel fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes. These signs of the virus start within 2 to 14 days after getting bitten. They usually last a few days to a week. But, many people don’t show any symptoms, making it hard to know if someone has the virus. 

How Mosquito spread
Source: Canva

Transmission MethodSymptoms
Infected Aedes mosquitoes
Mother-to-fetus during pregnancy
Sexual contact
Blood transfusions
Fever
Rash
Joint pain
Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

Knowing how the virus spreads and what symptoms to look for is key. This helps us take steps to protect ourselves and get help if we need it.

Zika Virus and Pregnancy Complications

The virus is a big threat to pregnant women. It can cause severe problems in their unborn babies. Studies show how the virus affects the baby’s brain development. During pregnancy, if a woman has a virus infection it can lead to Microcephaly. To learn more about Zika-related Microencephaly. It is a condition where the baby’s head is smaller than normal. The virus harms the cells that help the brain grow.

Other serious problems can also happen because of Zika:

  • Fetal growth restrictions
  • Placental insufficiency
  • Ocular abnormalities
  • Neurological impairments
  • Musculoskeletal deformities

These issues can affect babies for the rest of their lives. They might face delays in development, have trouble thinking, or have physical disabilities. The virus is a big worry for pregnant women and their babies worldwide. 

Congenital AbnormalityDescription
MicrocephalyAn abnormally small head size, caused by the virus disrupts the growth of neural progenitor cells in the developing brain.
Fetal Growth RestrictionsImpaired fetal growth and development, lead to infants being born smaller than normal.
Placental InsufficiencyReduced blood flow and nutrient delivery to the fetus, potentially lead to various complications.
Ocular AbnormalitiesEye-related defects, such as retinal damage and vision impairment.
Neurological ImpairmentsBrain and nervous system problems, including developmental delays and cognitive issues.
Musculoskeletal DeformitiesPhysical abnormalities affect the developing fetus’s bones, joints, and muscles.

Prevention and Control Measures

There is no vaccine yet to stop Zika virus infection. But, you can prevent the infection by protecting yourself. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests using insect repellent. They also recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Stay in places with air conditioning or screens to keep mosquitoes out.

Pregnant women need to be extra careful. This virus during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects. The CDC tells pregnant women to avoid areas with Zika outbreaks. They should also talk to their doctors about the risks and how to stay safe.

zika virus
Source: Canva

If you’ve been exposed to Zika or have symptoms, rest and drink plenty of water. Use over-the-counter meds for fever and pain. Also, avoid mosquito bites for a week after you start feeling sick to stop the virus from spreading.

Reference 

  1. Zika Virus: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention (clevelandclinic.org) 
  1.  Zika Virus: Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment (verywellhealth.com) 

Written By Divya Srinivasan

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