Zika virus, first identified in Uganda in 1947, is transmitted by the same type of mosquito that carries dengue fever, yellow fever, and chikungunya virus. A mosquito bites an infected person and then passes those viruses to other people it bites. Outbreaks did not occur outside of Africa until 2007, when it spread to the South Pacific.
Symptoms. The disease can cause fever, rash, joint pain, and redness in the whites of the eye. But most people won’t know they have it. Only about 1 in 5 people with the virus will exhibit symptoms. But in rare cases, Zika has been associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a disorder that can cause partial or complete paralysis, usually starting in the legs, most often temporary.
How is Zika virus treated? There’s no treatment, but most people with symptoms do well with over-the-counter medications for aches and pains. The disease usually runs its course within a week or so.
What protective measures can be taken? If you plan to travel in affected areas, avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent throughout the day. Also, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, both indoors and out. The mosquitoes that spread Zika are aggressive daytime biters often found indoors.
How are you tested for Zika? There are two ways to test for Zika. One test looks for pieces of the virus’ genetic code in people with active infections. But after the body clears the infection, which takes about 2 weeks after symptoms appear, that test won’t work. Another test looks for proteins called antibodies made by the immune system to fight the virus. It can find antibodies in the blood up to 3 months after a person is infected.
Besides It can spread by sexual contact through an infected person and also through blood transfusions of infected blood .Conjuctivitis is a prominant symptom .And the infected person should not share his personal items like hand towels ,towels ,toiletries with other family members .
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