Zika virus outbreak in Pune: How does the infection spread?

Six people, including two pregnant women, have been infected by the Zika virus in Pune. According to the health officials, all the patients are stable and recovering.

WHAT IS ZIKA VIRUS?

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus primarily spread by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

First identified in humans in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania in 1952, Zika virus outbreaks have occurred in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific.

The Aedes mosquitoes usually bite during the day, during early mornings and late afternoon or evening, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

HOW DOES ZIKA VIRUS SPREAD?

Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.

Although it is not a serious infection, if it infects a pregnant woman, it can be dangerous for the fetus.

For the unborn child, the infection can cause microcephaly, a brain disability condition, or other neurological conditions called congenital Zika syndrome.

It can also be transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore, using condoms properly is one way to prevent the transmission of this virus.

Another way the Zika virus can spread is through blood transfusion. However, this phenomenon is quite rare.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ZIKA VIRUS?

Zika virus infection can cause mild fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis (red eyes), muscle pain and headache.

Symptoms typically last for 2 days to a week.

TREATMENT

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Zika virus infection. However, symptoms can be managed by taking ample rest, consuming lots of fluids to combat dehydration, and taking certain medications prescribed by healthcare professionals.

HOW TO PREVENT ZIKA VIRUS SPREAD?

Preventing Zika virus infection involves reducing mosquito bites and practising safe behaviours:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol.
• Wear long-sleeved clothes and long pants.
• Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Sleep under a mosquito bed net if air-conditioned or screened rooms are not available.
• Reduce mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water in and around your home.
• Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with Zika outbreaks.
• Practice safe sex or abstinence to prevent sexual transmission.

The Aedes aegypti is also responsible for causing other infections like dengue and chikungunya.