Zika virus

Definition

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It can also be spread through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and from mother to fetus during pregnancy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zika virus can cause severe fetal brain defects such as microcephaly when a pregnant woman is infected.
2. Common symptoms include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, and muscle pain, typically lasting for 2-7 days.
3. There is no specific antiviral treatment for Zika; care focuses on relieving symptoms.
4. In rare cases, Zika virus infection has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a condition that affects the nervous system.
5. Preventative measures include mosquito control and avoiding mosquito bites in areas where Zika is prevalent.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for the Zika virus?
• Which severe birth defect is strongly associated with maternal Zika virus infection?
• How does the Zika virus affect the nervous system in rare cases?

Related terms

Aedes Mosquitoes: A genus of mosquitoes known to transmit diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika.

Microcephaly:

A medical condition where a baby's head is significantly smaller than expected due to abnormal brain development.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare neurological disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own nerves, leading to weakness and paralysis.