Kerala Reports First Zika Virus Case: Know Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention Steps For This Infection

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Kerala has officially confirmed its first case of Zika virus which is a mosquito-borne viral infection. Zika virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. These mosquitoes usually bite during the day, peaking during the early morning and late afternoon/evening. According to the World Health Organisation, this is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. No vaccine is yet available for prevention and treatment of this virus. The first outbreak of Zika virus was reported on the Island of Yap in 2007.

Zika virus: Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of Zika virus include-

Fever, rash, conjunctivitis, malaise, headache and muscle and joint pain are common symptoms of this disease. These symptoms are generally mild and typically last for 2-7 days. Most people with Zika virus infection do not develop symptoms, as per WHO.

Also read: Zika Virus: Here's All You Should Know

The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) of Zika virus disease is estimated to be 3-14 days.

Transmission

WHO mentions that this virus can be transmitted from the mother to fetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products and organ transplantation.

Also read: Zika Virus: The Dos And Don'ts

Prevention

Preventing mosquito bites is a key measure to prevent Zika virus infection. Pregnant women, women of reproductive age and young children should be specially protected.

(With inputs from WHO)

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