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Since Kerala reported its first case of Zika virus in a pregnant woman on July 8, a statewide alert was issued and experts were asked to monitor the cases. Zika virus infection can strike due to Zika virus (ZIKV), which is a human flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes. It can be transmitted mainly by Aedes mosquitoes, which bite early in the morning or even late at night.
Causes
Zika virus, unlike dengue and chikungunya, it is also transmitted through bodily fluids like blood and semen, or even through organ transplants. “It is also known that vertical transfer from mother to baby can occur during pregnancy,” said Dr Aruna Muralidhar, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Fortis La Femme Hospital, Richmond Road, Bengaluru.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it was first identified in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys. It was then identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania.
Symptoms
The incubation period, which is the time between exposure to the virus and symptoms, can be seen within 3 to 14 days, according to the WHO. Some people infected with the virus may not have any symptoms, while others may develop symptoms such as fever, mild rash, or body aches. In extreme cases, one may also experience persistent headaches and eye infection for 2-7 days, said Dr Manjeeta Nath Das, senior consultant, internal medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital, Palam Vihar Gurugram.
“About 80% are asymptomatic. Symptoms are usually mild in those who are symptomatic and last about 2 to 7 days and go away, ”noted Dr. Aruna.
What are the risks during pregnancy?
According to experts, if the infection occurs during pregnancy, there is a risk of miscarriage and some birth defects. The most commonly seen fetal abnormality is microcephaly or a small head, said Dr. Aruna. “A combination of microcephaly and certain neurological problems is called congenital Zika syndrome. However, this does not affect all fetuses born to a Zika positive mother. It is reported about 10% of cases, especially if the Zika infection occurs in the first trimester, ”she said.
According to the WHO, an increased risk of neurological complications is associated with Zika virus infection in adults and children, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, neuropathy and myelitis.
Here’s what pregnant women need to know about Zika virus prevention. (Source: Getty Images / Thinkstock)
The WHO also states that congenital Zika syndrome includes other deformities, including contractures of the limbs, high muscle tone, eye abnormalities and hearing loss. The risk of birth defects following infection during pregnancy remains unknown; It is estimated that 5 to 15% of infants born to women infected with Zika virus during pregnancy show signs of Zika virus complications. Birth defects occur after symptomatic and asymptomatic infection.
However, according to the WHO, “research is underway to study the effects of Zika virus infection on pregnancy outcome” and the effects of infection on other neurological disorders in children and the adults.
Treatment
There is no vaccine against Zika virus infection. Treatment is usually symptomatic with paracetamol, hydration and rest. In addition, it is recommended to avoid aspirin or any NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relieving drugs) during the infection.
According to the WHO, pregnant women living in areas of Zika transmission or who develop symptoms of Zika virus infection should see a doctor for laboratory tests and other clinical care.
Prevention
Dr Aruna suggested steps to be taken during the Zika outbreak or otherwise to prevent infection
* Mosquito repellents that are safe
* All mosquito repellent measures in and around the house, including full clothing
* Use barrier contraception if the partner is infected with Zika virus or exposed to Zika virus.
* Avoid travel to areas affected by Zika.
You can also use mosquito nets and mosquito nets to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house. Make sure there are no objects and materials around your home that could become breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes during the rainy season, said Dr Rajesh Kumar, internal medicine, Paras Hospitals Gurugram .
Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospital Kharghar also spoke about some simple steps you can take.
“To avoid it, don’t let the water stagnate near the house and prevent mosquitoes from breeding, steam every now and then, wear long-sleeved clothes and use mosquito repellants. Like any other viral infection, treatment is symptomatic. So prevention is better than cure for this infection, ”said Dr Surabhi.
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