Zika Virus: Are you safe?

The term "Zika Virus" is probably not completely foreign to you, as most have by now at least heard of this epidemic through various forms of media, news reports, or social media outlets. But past the flashy glamour of news reports and occasional google searches, what do you really know about the Zika Virus? Does it even matter or concern you? Let's take a deeper dive into what the virus is, and how, if at all, it may be of more concern than you might think.

WHAT IS ZIKA VIRUS

As defined by the Mayo Clinic's headquarters campus in Rochester Minnesota, the zika virus is: a mosquito-borne viral infection, with conflicting cases of symptomologies. Meaning, some reported cases there will be some notable symptoms, while others infected, may not even know they have the virus. 

WHERE IS ZIKA FOUND

Depending on where you reside in the world, you are more likely at risk than others. However the zika virus can be found worldwide. The greatest prevalence of the virus is located in regions such as: South and Central Americas (e.g., Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador), Pacific Islands, Mexico, Africa and the United States.

HOW DO WE GET IT

Individuals become infected with the Zika Virus by two main ways: 1) being in contact and through the bite of a mosquito-carrier of the virus (i.e. usually the Aedes species). 2) the other way is through sexual transmission with a Zika virus infected individual. A simple blood or urine test can confirm diagnosis. Now, as above mentioned, if some individuals show symptoms but others do not, how would one know if they have been infected with the virus?

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

The Zika Virus impacts individuals in a different way than most major viruses within a host body. The challenge medical professionals face with Zika virus infections is that the most severe signs and symptoms do not develop within the host, as much as a fetus. 

PREGNANCY IMPLICATIONS

For example, the mother may not display any symptoms. However, if she becomes pregnant and delivers a baby while being infected, her baby can result in severe deformities and health concerns from her transmission of the Zika virus in utero. One major example, is the link of microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome. Future concerns of neurological damage is currently being addressed in the medical field. 

PREVENTIONS FOR ZIKA VIRUS

Several forms of prevention can be used to address the transmission of Zika and how to avoid it. 

• Avoid traveling to countries where Zika is actively circulating
• Apply sunscreen before applying insect repellant 
• Use condoms and dental dams if actively engaging in sexual activity
• Treat clothing with permethrin

IS THERE A CURE OR CURRENT TREATMENTS

Mild symptoms and low-grade Zika transmission often requires no treatment. Individuals infected and/or diagnosed with Zika Virus are recommended to do the following: 

• rest
• drink plenty of fluids
• treat pain and fever with common over-the-counter medication

However, if symptoms continue after attempting the above methods, seek medical treatment with a doctor. For severe cases, currently there is no vaccine for the Zika virus.

CONCLUSION

While the media or local new reports may not be as frequently reporting the Zika Virus as much as it was in late 2015, but that does not mean the risk is not existent. Zika is concerning and still very real. Utilizing preventative measures will greatly reduce your risk of getting the disease. Additionally, this will reduce the rate of transmission as well.