Zika Virus Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Zika virus infection is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. This type of mosquito is the same as the mosquito that spreads dengue fever and chikungunya. In other words, this virus can spread easily in Indonesia.
The Zika virus was first discovered in monkeys living in the Zika forest, in Uganda, East Africa, in 1947. It was from that forest that this virus got its name. Since then, there have been several Zika outbreaks in several countries around the world.
Zika virus infection during pregnancy is associated with miscarriage and microcephaly. Microcephaly itself is a congenital disorder in which the baby’s head is smaller than it should be.
Babies with microcephaly can grow normally. However, in most cases it can cause growth disturbances, such as motor disorders, speech disorders, and intellectual disorders. In addition to microcephaly, the Zika virus can also cause Guillain-Barre syndrome.
Zika Virus Symptoms
As many as four out of five people infected with Zika experience no signs or symptoms. If there are symptoms, they usually begin to be felt two to seven days after being bitten by a mosquito.
Common signs and symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash and joint pain. In addition, the Zika virus can also cause headaches and red eyes ( conjunctivitis ).
Zika Virus Reason
The cause of Zika disease is the Zika virus. This virus is transmitted through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes, especially the Aedes aegypti species.
These mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in stagnant clean water, such as rain puddles on the streets, in flower pots and tubs of water in the bathroom. These mosquitoes generally bite humans during the day, both indoors and outdoors.
Spread through sexual contact and blood transfusions have also been reported.
Diagnosis
The doctor will usually ask about your medical history and travels. Therefore, make sure you remember the details about the trip, such as countries visited, date of visit, and contact with mosquitoes. Also, ask your doctor about the Zika virus tests that apply in your area.
If you are a pregnant woman who has recently traveled to a Zika outbreak area, it is advisable to get tested 2-12 weeks after returning home.
Zika Virus Treatment
There is no specific therapy or treatment that can be done to treat Zika virus infection.
If infected with this virus, the treatment is almost the same as treatment for other viral infections: lots of rest, drinking enough water, and with drugs—such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.)— to treat fever and joint pain.
Prevention
Until now, there is no vaccine available to prevent Zika virus disease. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise pregnant women not to travel to Zika outbreak areas. If you are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about your travel plans and your risk of getting the Zika virus.
If you have a partner who lives or has traveled to a Zika outbreak area, avoid having sex during pregnancy or use a condom during sex.
If you live and are traveling to a tropical area where the Zika virus is thriving, the most important thing is to prevent mosquito bites. Here are the tips:
- Live in an air-conditioned place.
- Use mosquito repellent cream.
- Use insecticides that have been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), because they are safe for pregnant and lactating women.
- Wear long sleeves and trousers in light or bright colors.
- Sleep with mosquito nets.
- Drain any places that have the potential to become stagnant water.
- Apply permethrin to clothing, sheets, pillowcases and pillows, and other items.