- Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that was first identified in 1947 in the Zika Forest of Uganda. Initially considered a relatively mild pathogen, Zika gained global attention after major outbreaks in the Pacific Islands and the Americas, particularly the 2015–2016 epidemic in Brazil.
- The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. However, unlike many other arboviruses, Zika can also be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and from a pregnant woman to her fetus, raising serious public health concerns.
- Clinically, Zika virus infection is usually mild or asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they tend to appear 3 to 14 days after exposure and may include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. These symptoms typically last for 2 to 7 days. However, the most alarming aspect of Zika infection is its association with severe neurological and developmental complications. In particular, Zika virus can cause congenital Zika syndrome, a condition in newborns characterized by microcephaly (abnormally small head and brain), brain abnormalities, eye defects, and other birth defects. Additionally, Zika infection has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis.
- Virologically, Zika is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family, the same family that includes dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses. It replicates within the host cells and can cross the placental barrier during pregnancy, making it particularly dangerous for developing fetuses. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for Zika virus infection. Management is supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms through rest, hydration, and the use of pain and fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally avoided until dengue fever is ruled out, due to the risk of hemorrhage.
- Preventive measures are key to controlling Zika virus transmission. These include mosquito control efforts such as eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and installing window screens or using bed nets. Public health campaigns also emphasize safe sex practices and travel advisories, especially for pregnant women traveling to endemic areas. While several vaccine candidates are in development, as of now, no licensed vaccine is available. Continued research and surveillance are essential to understanding the virus’s transmission dynamics and mitigating future outbreaks. Zika remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions where Aedes mosquitoes are prevalent.
