Zika virus infection is a mild infection but has been associated with serious complications if it occurs in pregnant women. More studies are planned to learn more about the risks of Zika virus infection during pregnancy, but all pregnant women are advised not to travel to countries where the virus is present.
How is Zika virus transmitted?
The virus was isolated for the first time in 1947 in the Zika Forest in Uganda. Zika is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This mosquito is the same one that transmits the virus that causes dengue fever and is very common in Anguilla. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. We do not know how often Zika is transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth.
Who is at risk of being infected?
Anyone who is living in or traveling to an area where the Zika virus is found – who has not already been infected with Zika virus – is at risk for infection, including pregnant women.
Zika virus infection and pregnancy
In several South American countries, the Zika virus is thought to cause microcephaly in unborn children, a condition which stops babies’ brains growing and causes abnormally small heads. Other poor pregnancy outcomes have been noticed as well. While the link between Zika and microcephaly has not been confirmed, the Zika virus was found in five of the 49 babies who have died of microcephaly in Brazil so far, according to the country’s health ministry.
Pregnant women in Anguilla having questions about the Zika virus should talk to their gynaecologist/obstetrician or healthcare provider.
What are the symptoms of Zika virus infection?
About one in five people infected with the Zika will get sick. For people who get sick, the illness is usually mild. The most common symptoms of the Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Symptoms typically begin 2 to 7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.
How is Zika diagnosed?
In most people, diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and epidemiological circumstances (such as Zika outbreak in the patient’s area or trips to areas where the virus is circulating).
Blood tests can help to confirm the diagnosis. Some (virological PCR tests) are useful in the first 3-5 days after the onset of symptoms, while others (serological tests) detect the presence of antibodies but are useful only after five days.
Once it has been demonstrated that the virus is present in a given area or territory, confirmation of all cases is not necessary, and laboratory testing will be adjusted to routine virological surveillance of the disease.
What should I do if I have Zika?
There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection. At this time no vaccine is available. The symptoms of the Zika virus infection are usually very mild and the following are recommended:
• Get plenty of rest
• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration
• Take medicines such as acetaminophen or paracetamol to reduce fever and pain
• Do not take aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
With no cure currently available, avoiding bites from the virus host Aedes aegypti mosquito is the only way to prevent infection.
Decreasing Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Anguilla
There is evidence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Anguilla and we must do more to decrease the population of this mosquito. Eliminating and controlling Aedes aegypti mosquito breeding sites reduce the chances that Zika, chikungunya, and dengue will be transmitted. A well-coordinated and sustained response is required, involving action in several areas, including health, education, and the environment and involving the entire population.
To eliminate and control the mosquito, it is recommended to:
• Avoid allowing standing water in outdoor containers (flower pots, bottles, and containers that collect water) so that they do not become mosquito breeding sites.
• Cover domestic water tanks so that mosquitoes cannot get in.
• Avoid accumulating garbage. Put it in closed plastic bags and keep it in closed containers.
• Unblock drains that could accumulate standing water.
• Use screens and mosquito nets in windows and doors to reduce contact between mosquitoes and people.
To prevent mosquito bites, it is recommended that people,especially, pregnant women who live in areas where there are cases of the disease, should:
• Cover exposed skin with long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and hats.
• Use repellents recommended by the health authorities (and apply them as indicated on the label).
• Sleep under mosquito nets.
Is it safe to use an insect repellent if I am pregnant or nursing?
Yes! Using an insect repellent is safe and effective. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding can and should choose an EPA-registered insect repellent and use it according to the product label.
Conclusion
The reported cases of the Zika virus infection in Brazil and several Latin American countries have led to much interest in this mosquito borne infection. Although the symptoms are mild and usually not life threatening, the infection of pregnant women has been associated with serious birth defects. There is no cure for this viral infection. We can reduce the transmission of Zika virus by decreasing the population of its vector – the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Start doing your part today.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG, is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty-two years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
