Causes & Symptoms Of Zika Virus: All You Need To Know

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus mainly spread by Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. First identified in Uganda in 1947, it has since caused outbreaks in Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas.

The primary cause of Zika virus infection is the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Other causes of the Zika virus include:
1. Mosquito Bites: The primary transmission route is through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.
2. Mother-to-Child Transmission: Pregnant women can transmit the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
3. Sexual Transmission: The virus can be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person.
4. Blood Transfusion: In rare cases, the virus can be spread through blood transfusions from an infected donor.
5. Laboratory Exposure: Laboratory workers can contract the virus through accidental exposure during research or diagnostic procedures.

Symptoms of the Zika Virus:
1. Fever: low-grade, typically below 102°F (38.9°C), often one of the first symptoms.
2. Rash: maculopapular rash (red spots and bumps) starting on the face and spreading to the body, often itchy.
3. Joint pain: pain and swelling in the smaller joints of the hands and feet, sometimes with muscle pain.
4. Conjunctivitis (Red Eyes): red, irritated eyes resembling pink eyes but without pus.
5. Muscle pain: general muscle aches and pains, similar to other viral infections.
6. Headache: mild to moderate headaches, often alongside other symptoms.
7. Fatigue: general tiredness and lack of energy, which can persist after other symptoms resolve.
8. Abdominal Pain: Less common, it may present as dull or sharp pain in the abdominal area.
9. Vomiting: Nausea and occasional vomiting contribute to dehydration and weakness.
10. Eye pain: deep, aching pain behind the eyes, aggravated by eye movement.