The Zika virus is a disease spread by Aedes mosquitoes to humans, largely restricted to Africa and occasionally Asia. Outbreaks have also occurred in Brazil, the Easter Islands, and several other areas since October 2015. Its name comes from the Zika Forest in Uganda, where it was first isolated. Here is a look at the symptoms, prevention, treatment, of the Zika virus.
Zika Virus Symptoms
Common symptoms of the Zika virus include a slight fever and a skin rash. Those who develop the virus may also experience conjunctivitis, pain the joints and muscles, and feeling generally unwell.
It takes between two days to a week after being bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus for these symptoms to develop and subside. Symptoms are not usually harsh, and only about a quarter of people with the virus actually experience symptoms.
The Aedes mosquito that carries the virus also carries dengue and chikungunya, two severe and disabling viral diseases with similar but more extreme symptoms. While there have been no reports of death, the disease can be extremely severe in cases where the infected party has other health issues. Experts have only recently begun documenting and researching cases of the Zika virus as it has become more widespread.
Zika Virus Treatment
Since it is generally not an extremely serious disease and has been so isolated in its geographical location, no preventative vaccine or cure has been developed for the Zika virus yet. As with many viral infections, all that can be done is treating symptoms until the virus has run its course. It is important to get plenty of sleep and drink plenty of clear, healthy fluids to avoid developing dehydration. Taking acetaminophen may help with lowering fevers, but it is important to avoid aspirin and similar non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) medications, as there has been some evidence that Guillain-Barre disease may be connected with the Zika virus. Guillain-Barre can be caused by taking NSAIDs during viral infections.
If you suspect you have the Zika virus, go to a doctor as soon as possible. Special blood tests may help with diagnosis, and it is important to mention any traveling to infected areas you’ve been doing. Let your doctor know about any underlying disease you may have that can increase the risks of the virus.
Zika Virus Prevention
The most important part of preventing the Zika virus is to avoid mosquito bites as much as possible and to keep the mosquito population under control.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommend several steps to prevent contracting the Zika virus. Local populations and travelers going to areas known to have Aedes mosquitoes should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Wear clothing that covers as much of the skin as possible, use appropriate mosquito repellent properly, and utilize a mosquito net during sleep.
