Zika virus infectious disease

Zika virus infectious disease is caused by a virus transmitted by mosquitoes. It can result in no symptoms or mild symptoms such as fever, red eyes (conjunctivitis), joint and muscle pain, headache, and skin rash. In some cases, people with this condition can develop severe complications that affect the nervous system, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, and immune system problems. This condition is particularly concerning for pregnant people because the infection has been linked with birth defects like microcephaly, where the baby’s head is smaller than expected. Although many infections are mild, the potential for serious neurological and developmental issues makes it important for people with this disease to be aware of the possible complications.

Common symptoms in people with this condition include fever, red eyes, joint and muscle pain, headache, and skin rash. In some cases, the disease can lead to severe neurological symptoms such as meningitis or inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, as well as autoimmune issues like Guillain-Barre syndrome. There is also a risk for birth defects, including microcephaly, if the virus infects a pregnant person.

Zika virus infectious disease is caused by a virus that is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The risk of contracting the virus increases in areas where these mosquitoes are common. People with this condition get the infection through mosquito bites, and it can be a concern during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects.

Information about treatment is currently limited for this condition.

Most people with Zika virus infectious disease experience no symptoms or only mild symptoms and recover well. However, some people can develop serious neurological or immune complications, and there is a risk of birth defects when the virus infects a pregnant person. The overall outlook depends on the severity of symptoms and complications experienced.

Information about research is currently limited for this condition.