The Zika virus is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly “Aedes aegypti” and “Aedes albopictus”.
First identified in Uganda in the 1940s, the virus remained relatively obscure until its spread in the America in 2015
The World Health Organization declared Zika a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to its rapid spread and its links to severe birth defects, notably microcephaly.
Common symptoms of Zika Virus are Fever, Rash, Joint Pain and Conjunctivitis
Zika Virus spreads through sexual transmission, mother to child transmission, blood transfusions, laboratory exposure
If a woman gets affected from the virus while pregnant, particularly during the first trimester, her baby is at increased risk of developing Microcephaly
Microcephaly: A disorder marked by an atypically tiny head and inadequate brain development.
To Prevent Zika Virus, one must stop Mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water, so regularly empty containers that collect water, such as buckets, flower pots and bird baths.
Apply mosquito repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin.
Local health departments should provide education about the Zika Virus, its risks and prevention strategies.