Zika virus disease

The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) of Zika virus disease is 3 to 14 days. Symptoms are usually indistinguishable from other diseases such as dengue and chikungunya and persist for 2 to 7 days. The symptoms include:

• Fever
• Rash
• Conjunctivitis
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Malaise
• Headache

Patients might also experience additional symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Photophobia
• Small ulcers on the oral mucosa
• Hearing impairment
• Vomiting

Most people contract the Zika infection through mosquito bites.

The virus is primarily spread by the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquito, which breed in or near stagnant water. These mosquitoes typically bite during the day, with peak activity in the early morning and late afternoon/evening.

Listen to our expert discuss diseases commonly spread by mosquitoes.

• Residing in a Zika-infected area
• Not taking adequate precautions to prevent mosquito bites
• Traveling to areas with Zika outbreaks
• Having unprotected sex with a person infected with the Zika virus
• Receiving transfusions of blood and blood products
• Transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy

Zika virus disease is usually diagnosed within a week of developing symptoms or if you or your partner have recently traveled to a contaminated area. The most common testing methods include:

• Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR): This method detects the Zika virus's RNA (genetic material). It is a rapid, sensitive, and specific method for early detection. The test can be performed using urine, saliva, and blood samples, and can detect the virus during the first 3 to 5 days after the onset of infection. This test helps to differentiate between similar infections such as dengue fever or chikungunya infection.
• Serology: This method can detect the presence of antibodies after four days of illness. Antibody (IgM) levels are variable but generally become positive starting in the first week after the onset of symptoms and continue for up to 12 weeks post-symptom onset or exposure, but may persist for months to years. This test is not generally recommended as it cannot differentiate from other viral infections, such as dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever.
• Plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT): This is a quantitative assay that measures virus-specific neutralizing antibody titers. PRNTs can resolve false-positive IgM antibodies. This test is commonly acknowledged as the gold standard; however, it has limitations in terms of time, cost, and resources.

Examination During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, several tests can be conducted to identify congenital Zika virus infection. These include:

• Ultrasound: Serial ultrasounds (every 3 to 4 weeks) are recommended for Zika-infected (or suspected) pregnant women. The test can detect various brain-related abnormalities of the fetus, such as microcephaly.
• Amniocentesis: This procedure, which involves testing the amniotic fluid for possible Zika virus infection, can be performed after 15 weeks of gestation. Early detection significantly increases the chances of managing the infection, empowering you to take control of your health and your baby's well-being.

Zika virus disease is preventable. By taking the following simple steps to reduce mosquito bites, you can significantly lower your risk:

I. Prevent mosquito bites

1. Use mosquito repellents. These are available in patches, bands, creams, and lotions. Mosquito repellents protect against mosquitoes both indoors and outdoors. They can be chemical-based or natural. Protect yourself from mosquitoes. Explore our wide range of mosquito repellents.

Tips to follow while using repellents:

• Avoid spraying the repellent on the skin under clothing.
• Apply sunscreen first if you are applying it with a repellent.
• Read complete instructions to avoid any reaction.
• Do not apply insect repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.
2. Avoid stagnant water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in and around standing water. The following measures can be taken to avoid standing water:
• Drain out water from buckets and mugs after washing and bathing.
• Cover water storage containers with tight lids.
• Remove standing water from flower pots, AC trays, and coolers.
• Clean roof gutters, home coolers, and swimming pools regularly.
• Keep native larvivorous fishes in the pools as they feed on mosquitoes.
3. Restrict entry of mosquitoes from outdoors. The infected mosquitoes breeding eggs outside in trash containers can enter the house. The best way is to prevent their entry. This can be done by taking the following measures:
• Use nets and screens for doors and windows.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Fix all holes in doors and windows, if any.
• Cover baby carriers with netting.
4. Cover yourself. You can avoid mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing. While dressing up, follow these measures:
• Wear full-sleeve clothes and pants.
• Wash clothing and gear such as shoes, pants, socks, etc., with insecticide.
• Wear light-colored clothes.
• Allow the clothes to dry completely before wearing.
5. Sleep under mosquito nets. It is one of the conventional and effective ways to prevent mosquito bites. These nets can be mounted on your bed. The fine mesh of the nets restricts the entry of mosquitoes.

II. Follow safe sexual practices

Zika virus disease can be transmitted through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Sharing sex toys can also pass the virus to other people. The virus can remain in semen (viral persistence in testes can last up to 160 days) and vaginal secretions longer than any other body fluids (urine and blood). The following preventive measures can be taken to reduce the chances of infection:

• Use condoms while having vaginal, oral, and anal sex.
• Avoid sharing sex toys.
• Use dental dams while having oral sex.

Condoms can act as an effective contraceptive and also protect you from a wide range of sexually transmitted diseases. Are you using condoms correctly?

There is no specific treatment or vaccine available for Zika virus disease. The treatment is usually aimed at reducing the symptoms. Most patients typically recover on their own by taking proper rest and supportive care.

To prevent dehydration, individuals are advised to:

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and coconut water.
• Prioritize rest, as the infection can lead to tiredness and fever. This is vital to the treatment process and can significantly aid recovery.
• In case of body pain and fever, Paracetamol can be taken.
• Consult a doctor immediately if pregnant women are living in areas of active Zika transmission or exhibit symptoms.

Note: It is important to avoid Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin until a doctor confirms the absence of dengue fever. This precaution can help prevent potential complications.

Once you have Zika virus, there are very few chances that you will experience any symptoms. Symptoms are usually mild and rarely require hospitalization. However, it is essential to take care of the following points:

• Consume plenty of water and other fluids like coconut water and soups.
• Take adequate rest.
• Regularly sanitize your surroundings. This is an essential step in preventing the spread of Zika virus.
• Control mosquitoes both inside and outside your home.
• Abstain from any sexual activity as it may transmit the infection to your partner.
• Do not plan to conceive for at least 2 to 3 months after recovery.
• Pregnant women should regularly meet their gynecologist to screen for any fetal abnormalities.

Dietary Inclusions

You can also include the following in your diet to boost your immunity to fight against the infection:

• Garlic (Lehsun): With its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is a powerful ally in fighting infections. Allicin, a key ingredient in garlic, boosts immunity and reduces muscle pain and fever. It's easy to include in your diet, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, making it a simple yet practical addition to your health routine.
• Papaya (Papita): Papaya enhances immunity, helping in fighting infections. It also acts as an antioxidant. Note: Papaya should not be consumed during pregnancy.
• Vitamin C: Foods rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and kiwi, are known to enhance immunity and can aid in faster recovery. You can also take Vitamin C supplements to fill any gaps in your diet.

Tips for Caregivers

When caring for a Zika-infected patient, it's crucial to follow these precautionary measures. They play a key role in reducing the risk of transmission, ensuring your safety and that of others:

• Do not touch blood or body fluids such as urine or vomit of the infected person.
• Wash hands properly after meeting with the infected person.
• Remove and wash clothes timely and immediately if they are exposed to any blood or other fluids.
• Sanitize the person's environment and belongings daily.
• Take necessary steps to avoid mosquito bites.
• Keep doors and windows closed.
• Use mosquito nets for babies.

People suffering from Zika virus disease usually recover on their own. The disease is mild and rarely requires hospitalization. However, in some cases, it can cause several complications. Pregnant women are at high risk of developing complications.

Congenital Zika Syndrome

There is a strong link between Zika virus infection during pregnancy and birth defects in children. An infected pregnant woman can pass the virus to her developing baby, leading to a group of birth defects known as congenital Zika syndrome. This can affect the growth and development of the developing baby. The possible abnormalities include:

• Smaller brain and collapsed skull (microcephaly)
• Decreased brain tissue
• Scarring at the back of the eye
• Reduced mobility of the joints
• Reduced movement of the body immediately after birth
• Epilepsy
• Intellectual disability
• Respiratory infection
• Dysphagia
• Neural tube defects
• Cerebral palsy
• Low birth weight
• Vision problems

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

Zika virus disease can rarely cause Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a neurological disorder in which the immune system damages nerve cells, leading to muscle weakness. In advanced stages, muscles that control breathing may also be affected. Patients usually recover from GBS within several months, although it can rarely cause permanent damage.

Other Neurological Disorders

Zika virus disease can also lead to several central nervous system-related disorders, such as:

• Neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Meningoencephalitis (inflammation of both the brain and its surrounding membranes)
• Retinopathies (damage to the retina of the eye)

Thrombocytopenia

Very rarely, Zika virus disease can cause thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a reduced number of platelets, which can result in bleeding, bruising, and slow blood clotting.

Pregnancy Loss

The infection of Zika virus in pregnant women increases the chances of miscarriages, preterm birth, and stillbirth.