Zika virus can be transmitted to a person through mosquito bite. This disease is usually mild and its symptoms last from 4-7 days.
Symptoms
The most common zika virus symptoms are:
- Rash
- Fever
- Red eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Joint pain
Other symptoms include:
- Headache
- Muscle pain
Generally, people with Zika virus symptoms are not treated in hospitals and they rarely die of this illness. This is one of the reasons why many people are not even aware that they are infected.
Once infected, a person is likely to be protected from future Zika virus infections.
Diagnosis
Zika virus symptoms are similar to those of chikungunya and dengue. These illnesses are spread by the same female Aedes mosquito that transmits Zika virus.
So, in case you have recently traveled somewhere, inform your doctor where and when you traveled. Your doctor will probably order blood tests to look for this virus or other similar viruses (as dengue or chikungunya).
Treatment
Currently, there is no vaccine found to prevent or some medicine to treat Zika.
You can only treat or prevent the symptoms, like:
- Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids to prevent dehydration.
- Get a lot of rest.
- Take paracetamol to reduce pain and fever.
- Do not use aspirin and other similar drugs.
- If you are using medicine for treating other medical condition at the same time, consult your doctor before using any additional drugs.
If you already have Zika, you should try to prevent mosquito bites when you are ill. During the time when you have the infection (the first week), Zika can be found in the blood and handed from an ill person to a mosquito through a mosquito bite, because the infected mosquito will spread the virus to other people.
Zika Virus in the USA
In 2016, Zika became a worldwide notifiable disease. Experts are encouraged to report suspected cases to their country to facilitate diagnosis and alleviate the risks of local transmission.
With the latest outbreaks, the number of Zika virus illness cases among people who visit or return to the USA will likely increase. USA travelers who visit an area where Zika is found can become bitten by a mosquito and infected.
Should Pregnant Women Avoid Travel?
Because of the possible risks to unborn babies, pregnant women or those who are trying to become pregnant should not travel to areas with Zika virus.
Conclusion:
See your doctor if you develop any of the symptoms described in this article and have visited an area with Zika virus.
You must visit your doctor if you are pregnant and develop a rash, fever, red eyes, or joint pain within two weeks after traveling to a place where this virus has been reported.
As we learn more about this condition, See Stay Share guidance might change based on latest information important for you to know.
