Zika virus: what causes it, how to treat it and how to prevent it?
The Zika virus received its name because it was isolated for the first time in the Zika forest, located in Uganda, in 1947. In Brazil, the disease caused by the pathogen was detected for the first time in 2015. 1
Despite causing moderate symptoms, generally without much direct risk to the patient, the link between Zika and cases of malformation in babies, when the mother is infected during pregnancy, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects the nerves and causes muscle weakness. 1
Therefore, to avoid these complications, it is very important to know the Zika virus and what can be done to prevent the transmission of the disease caused by it. Keep reading and find out more!
What is the Zika virus?
The Zika virus is an arbovirus, the name given to disease-causing microorganisms that are spread by arthropods, small animals and insects that, in most cases, feed on blood. The main transmitter of Zika is Aedes aegypti, which is also responsible for dengue, yellow fever and chikungunya. 1
As mentioned, the first records date back to 1947, remaining with little relevance until 2007, when it caused more worrying outbreaks on several islands in the south of the Pacific Ocean. Shortly afterwards, in 2015, he was already making his presence felt here. 1
Between 2015 and 2016, the Zika virus caused a short and impactful epidemic in Brazil, being linked to several cases of microcephaly and child malformation, as the disease passes from the mother to the fetus. 1
In addition to transmission through mosquito bites and during pregnancy, contamination occurs through sexual intercourse, blood transfusion or accidental exposure. 1
What are the symptoms?
In most Zika virus infections, the condition is asymptomatic, meaning that the person does not even notice that they were infected. When the disease causes symptoms, the main ones are 1 :
- low fever, less than 38ºC;
- conjunctivitis;
- pain in muscles and joints;
- headache, especially behind the eyes;
- red spots and rashes on the skin.
In general, the virus causes mild or moderate discomfort, which takes between four and seven days to pass. During this time, it is important to avoid contact with other people, rest, stay hydrated and, if necessary, take medication to alleviate symptoms, as per medical advice.
Read also: Flu in summer: understand the differences and see how to prevent it all year round
What are the possible complications of the Zika virus?
The main complications caused by Zika virus infection are Guillain-Barré syndrome, microcephaly, developmental problems and various abnormalities in babies. 1
Guillain-Barré is a very rare autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness, starting in the legs and affecting the chest, neck and upper limbs. This occurs because the immune system begins to attack the body itself, mainly affecting the nerves associated with movement and support. 1
When a pregnant woman is infected with the Zika virus, it can be transmitted to her baby. Depending on the stage of embryonic development, the consequences may vary. 1
The main concern is microcephaly, which causes the child’s head and, consequently, the brain to reach a smaller size than normal, causing underdevelopment of the central nervous system. two
If this occurs, there is a high risk of intellectual disability, delayed child development, seizures, difficulty swallowing, which impairs eating, vision and hearing problems, lack of balance and difficulty moving. two
It is worth pointing out that some of these complications can affect a baby infected with the Zika virus even if there is no microcephaly or malformation of the skull. 1
Is it at greater risk during pregnancy?
It is possible to state that the greatest risk of contracting the Zika virus occurs during pregnancy, considering the impact that the pathogen is capable of having on child development during pregnancy, affecting the child’s growth and well-being throughout their life. 3
This is one of the most important reasons to invest in preventing the disease, by eliminating breeding sites for Aedes aegypti, the main transmitter of the virus, and avoiding sexual intercourse without a condom , especially if the partner has traveled to regions with outbreaks of the virus or presented suspicious symptoms in the last three months. 3
It is recommended that pregnant women at risk of contamination undergo blood tests to detect exposure to the virus and ultrasounds to monitor the development of the fetus and diagnose cases of microcephaly as soon as possible. 3
They are also advised not to travel to areas with Zika outbreaks during pregnancy, if possible. 3
What should I do if I think I have this disease?
Suspicion of Zika virus infection may arise after visiting regions suffering from outbreaks of the disease or presenting suspicious symptoms. In these cases, blood and urine tests can be performed to detect the pathogen and diagnose the condition. 1
Due to the greater risk of complications, it is more common for these tests to be carried out only on pregnant women and babies during pregnancy. 1
Another possibility is to identify what causes each case, as the symptoms of Zika are similar to those of other common diseases in tropical areas, such as dengue, yellow fever and chikungunya . 1
How can I treat it?
Zika virus treatment is aimed at supporting the immune system, which is responsible for fighting the disease. During this period, it is recommended to rest, to preserve the body and reduce the risk of spreading the virus, drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated and take medicine to relieve fever and body aches. 1
It is recommended to avoid the use of aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if dengue fever is suspected, due to the risk of causing bleeding. If the suspicion is ruled out, use is permitted. 1
In general, before using any medication, it is recommended to see a doctor to receive a diagnosis and guidance on the best treatment. 1
What is the Zika situation in Brazil in 2023?
The Zika situation in Brazil became a concern again in 2023, due to a 20% increase in the number of cases registered in the first half of the year, compared to the same period in the previous year, reaching 7,093 infected people. This outbreak required emergency measures to combat Aedes aegypti breeding sites. 4
These measures proved to be even more important, considering that the mosquito is the main transmitter of other diseases that were on the rise, such as dengue fever, yellow fever and chikungunya. 4
Also check out: New wave of covid-19: China prepares to face new cases
Conclusion: how to prevent the Zika virus?
The Zika virus is responsible for mild infections, which, in most cases, occur without any notable symptoms. However, with a high risk of complications for the development of babies during pregnancy, it needs to be tackled appropriately.
The elimination of Aedes aegypti breeding sites, which are places of clean, still water, especially when the climate is hot and favors the proliferation of mosquito larvae, is the most important preventive measure of all.
We hope you have answered your questions about the Zika virus and are ready to take precautions. For more information about viruses, symptoms and general treatments for flu and colds, stay tuned to the Portal da Saúde blog. Until next time!
