What Is Zika Virus? Know Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, When To Visit Doctor and Treatment for the Mosquito-Borne Virus

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness that is spread by the Aedes mosquito. It is the same species that causes diseases like dengue and chikungunya. The Aedes mosquito breeds in stagnant water. These mosquitoes tend to be active the most during the day. However, they also tend to attack at night. The symptoms of Zika virus are very minor and most people don’t realise they have it. This can be dangerous, especially for pregnant women. If a pregnant woman gets infected with the Zika virus, it can affect the foetus, resulting in abnormalities in the baby. It is important to note that the Zika virus can also spread from sexual intercourse. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of Zika virus cases in Maharashtra. Let’s take a look at the symptoms, prevention, causes and when to visit the doctor if you are infected with the Zika virus. Woman Detected with Zika Virus Infection in Pune; Number of Cases Rises to 7.

What Is Zika Virus and Its Causes

The Zika virus is most usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. This virus reproduces by using your cells as a source. This is the main cause of the virus. It can also be transmitted through sexual intercourse. The Zika virus is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, the Americas, Southern Asia, and the Western Pacific.

Zika Virus Symptoms

Zika virus symptoms are very mild and often vague. Some symptoms include rashes, fever, joint pain, red eyes, conjunctivitis, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and pain in the eyes. The symptoms last for up to a week and usually go away on their own. Requiring hospitalisation due to a Zika virus infection is very rare. It is even rarer for someone to die due to it.

Zika Virus Prevention

Mosquitoes prefer humid and dark places and stagnant water, be it indoors or outdoors. To prevent the zika virus, use a bug spray or insect repellant. Avoid staying near stagnant water. Mosquitoes tend to multiply by laying eggs in and around stagnant water. Remove or empty anything that contains water in it, such as vases, buckets, bowls, pots, or pans. Protect your house with nets. Keep all the areas in your home and surroundings clean. Seal any opening in your home. If feeding your pets or birds, ensure you change the water often. When travelling, carry a mosquito net, which can come in handy. Always wear long sleeved tops and long pants. When indoors, make use of door screens and windows. Pregnant women should avoid travelling unless it is an emergency.

When To Visit Doctor if Infected With Zika Virus

Anyone who has visited a Zika-affected area within the last 12 weeks and has symptoms of the disease should visit a doctor as soon as possible. Pregnant women who have travelled to these places or had unprotected sex with a person who may have Zika, regardless of whether they have symptoms, should consult a doctor about testing. The Zika virus test is a simple blood test.

Zika Virus Treatment

At present, there is no vaccine or medicine that can treat Zika virus. However, if you are infected by it, the doctor will recommend you drink a lot of fluids. In addition, it will also be recommended that you take proper rest and take acetaminophen in case of fever. Zika Virus: Two More Cases of Mosquito-Borne Virus Reported in Pune, Total Tally Rises to Six.

Zika virus is usually not a very serious illness. However, it is important to protect yourself and stay safe at all times. If you or someone you know is pregnant, ensure you check up on them. Ensure you also take care of pets and children. By following the simple preventive measures mentioned above, you and your loved ones can be safe.

(This article is written for an informative purpose and should not be substituted for medical advice. Kindly consult your doctor before trying any tips.)

(The above story first appeared on Today News 24 on Jul 03, 2024 01:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website todaynews24.top).