Zika virus disease
The Zika virus (Orthoflavivirus zikaense) is transmitted to humans predominantly by mosquitoes.
Approximately 80% of infected people show no symptoms. In the remaining cases, acute symptoms take 3-12 days to appear.
Symptoms include:
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generalised rash, starting on the face and spreading over the rest of the body
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mild fever
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joint pain
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fatigue
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eye infection
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muscle pain
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headache
Symptoms of the disease are usually mild, are usually short-lived and resolve without treatment.
In infected foetuses, the virus can cause brain damage and malformations. There are also indications that people who have had Zika virus infection may develop an autoimmune neurological disease.
The disease mainly spreads through mosquito bites, but there are other routes such as mother-to-foetus transmission, either through the placenta or during birth, sexual transmission, blood transfusions and organ transplants.
There is no vaccine against the disease and no specific treatment. Treatment is based on hydration, pain relief and rash relief.
The main protective measure is to avoid mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing protective clothing and using mosquito nets.
Preventive measures to mitigate the risk of sexual transmission (i.e. abstinence, correct and consistent use of condoms) should be considered in areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission.
Pregnant women, women of childbearing age, women considering pregnancy and their partners should consult their healthcare provider for an individual assessment of risk and consider delaying non-essential travel to areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission.
People travelling to areas affected by the virus cannot donate blood until 28 days after returning.
