Understanding Zika
Zika is a virus. It is spread by mosquitoes. It was first discovered in the Zika Forest of Uganda in 1947. For many decades, it was thought to be a rare cause of infection. It was found only in small areas of Africa, the Yap Islands in the Pacific, and Easter Island. But in April 2015, it was found in Brazil. It has since spread quickly to many countries in South America and Central America, and to the Caribbean and Mexico.
A number of cases have also been found in the U.S. Most of these people got the virus while visiting other parts of the world where mosquitoes are spreading it. Rarely, the virus has been spread by mosquitoes in the U.S.
What causes Zika?
The Zika virus is mostly passed on by the bite of the mosquito species Aedes. Pregnant women who have it can also give it to their unborn child. It may also be spread through sexual contact and blood transfusion.
Symptoms of Zika
Most people infected with the Zika virus have no symptoms. About 1 out of 5 people have mild symptoms that last 5 to 7 days and then go away completely. Symptoms may include:
Treatment for Zika
There is no medicine to cure the Zika virus. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms. Treatments include:
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Rest. You may feel better more quickly if you get plenty of rest.
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Fluids. Drinking lots of fluids will help you stay hydrated. Water and sports drinks are good choices. Don’t have alcohol or drinks with caffeine.
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Medicine. Acetaminophen can help ease fever and pain.
Possible complications of Zika
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Microcephaly in newborns. Pregnant women who are infected with Zika can pass it on to their unborn child. This is true even if the woman has no symptoms. These children may be born with microcephaly. This birth defect causes a smaller than normal head and a less developed brain. It can lead to developmental problems, learning disabilities, and neurological problems.
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Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults. This disease causes severe muscle weakness or paralysis.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these:
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider
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Pain that gets worse
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Symptoms that don’t get better or get worse
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New symptoms
Online Medical Reviewer:
Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
Online Medical Reviewer:
L Renee Watson MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2021
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