“Zika virus” the hidden threat towards humanity.

In May 2015, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an alert regarding the first confirmed  Zika virus infection in Brazil. The outbreak in Brazil led to reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome and pregnant women  giving birth to babies with birth defects and poor pregnancy outcomes.

What is Zika ?

Zika is a disease caused by Zika virus that is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week.

What are the symptoms of Zika?

About 1 in 5 people infected with Zika will get sick. The illness is usually mild. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash,joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Symptoms typically begin 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.         

How is Zika transmitted?

Zika is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that spread Chikungunya and dengue. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters and they can also bite at night.  Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites. It can also be transmitted from a  pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth.

 

            What can people do to prevent Zika?

1.  Protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.
2.  Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
3.  Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
4.  Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents.
5.  Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or purchase permethrin-treated items.
6.  Sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are overseas or outside and are not able to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

     

         What is the treatment for Zika?

1. Get plenty of rest.

2. Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.

3. Take medicine such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain.

4. Do not take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

5. If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your healthcare provider before taking additional medication.

               Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention