Zika virus(ZIKV) Disease - Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites.....
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MBBS, NA, Department of cyco
Zika virus(ZIKV) disease is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Zika virus . Zika virus is a flavivirus, closely related to dengue is transmitted by daytime-active Aedes mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti. The same mosquito also transmits three other vector-borne diseases -Dengue, Chikungunya and Yellow fever – across tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
The name 'Zika' orginates from the Zika Forest of Uganda, where the virus was first isolated in 1947.Outbreaks of Zika have occurred in areas of Africa, the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia and the Americas. Because of the Aedes species mosquitos that spread Zika virus are found all over the world, It is likely that outbreaks will spread to new countries.
Structure of Zika Virus
The structure of ZIKV is same as that of other flaviviruses. It contains a nucleocapsid approximately 25-30 nm in diameter surrounded by host-membrane ,derived lipid bilayer that contains envelope proteins E and M. The virion is roughly 40 nm in diameter with surface projections ,measure about 5-10 nm. The surface proteins are arranged in an icosohedral-like symmetry.
Symptoms
The incubation period (the time for exposure to symptoms) of Zika virus disease is unknown, but is likely to be a few days. Most people (80%) who are exposed to Zika virus will not get sick. If they get sick, symptoms starts 2-7 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.
The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are following
- Red eyes
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Pain behind the eyes
The illness is commonly mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week.The infection frequently present itself as asymptomatic (no symptoms).About 1 in 5 people infected with zika virus become ill (ie, develop infection).Severe disease requiring hospitalization is rare.
Transmission
Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily via the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.These are the same mosquitos that transmits three other vector-borne diseases -Dengue, Chikungunya and Yellow fever .These mosquitos typically lay eggs in and near standing water in things like buckets,animal dishes,bowls,Flower pots and Vases.They are aggressive day time biters prefer to bite peoples,and live indoors and outdoors near to people.Mosquitoes become infected when they bite on a person already infected with the zika virus.Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites.
During pregnancy, Zika virus could be passed from a mother to her baby. It can sometimes result in a birth defect that causes abnormal head and brain development (microcephaly).
Spread of the virus through sexual contact and blood transfusion have been reported.
Diagnosis
So many methods can be used for diagnosis, such as viral nucleic acid detection, virus isolation and serological testing.
Nucleic acid detection is by reverse transcriptase - polymerase chain reaction, targeting the non-structural protein 5 genomic region is the primary way of diagnosis,while virus isolation is largely used for research purposes. Urine or Saliva samples collected during the first Three to Five days after symptom onset, or serum collected in the first 1 to 3 days, are suitable for diagnosis of Zika virus by these methods. Serological tests, including immuno fluorescence assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) may shows the presence of anti-Zika virus IgG and IgM antibodies.
Treatment
There is no specific medicine to treat or vaccine to prevent the Zika infections.
- Get plenty of rest
- To prevent dehydration drink fluids well.
- Take the drugs such as acetaminophen to relieve fever and pain.
Do not take Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like Naproxen and Ibuprofen. Aspirin and NSAIDs should be avoided until dengue can be ruled out to decrease the risk of hemorrhage (bleeding).
Prevention
The correct way to prevent Zika virus infections is by preventing the spread of virus by vector control. This means controlling or eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
The following measures can be used to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes.
- Empty or remove water in old tyres, bottles, tin cans, trays etc.
- Change water regularly in Birdbaths, Pet water dishes and Plant trays.
- Cover tightly with a lid all water tanks, barrels, cisterns, rubbish containers, etc.
- Introduce larvivorous fish (Eg: Guppy) to ornamental water features as these eat the mosquito larvae.
People can do the following ways to prevent themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes.
- Wear long sleeve dress and pants.
- Install secure screens to doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out.
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