Zika virus explained: How is it spread & why pregnant women should take extra caution?

Though nonlethal to human beings, Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly in infants.

HOW IS ZIKA VIRUS SPREAD? Zika is spread by the bite mosquitoes belonging to the Aedes species. 'Aedes Aegypti' is likely to bite people during day time as well as at night. 

WHAT SYMPTOMS ARE FOUND IN ZIKA PATIENTS: Fever, muscle pain, body rashes, headache, joint pain, red eyes etc are the most common symptoms of Zika viral infection.

IS IT THE ONLY MODE OF TRANSMISSION: No. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Blood transfusion and unprotected sex can also result in the transmission of the virus.

HOW LONG WILL SYMPTONS LAST: Symptoms can last for several days to a week. However, once a person has been infected with Zika, they are likely to be protected from future infections.

IS ZIKA VIRUS DEADLY TO HUMANS? No. Zika virus very rarely causes death. Most people usually don’t get sick enough to be hospitalised.

THEN WHY IS IT DANGEROUS: Zika infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly in infants.

WHAT IS MICROCEPHALY: 'Microcephaly' is a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller -- a sign of incomplete brain development.

HOW IS ZIKA VIRUS DIAGNOSED: Symptoms of Zika are similar to other diseases spread by mosquitoes like dengue and chikungunya. A blood or urine test can confirm Zika infection in a person.

WHERE IS ZIKA VIRUS DIOGNISED DONE IN INDIA: National Centre for Disease Control in New Delhi and Pune's National Institute of Virology (NIV).

IS VACCINE AVAILABLE: No. There is no known medication for Zika virus.

WHAT SHOULD PATIENTS DO: Prevent dehydration by taking plenty of fluids, get lots of rest, take medicine to reduce fever and pain and consult doctors at the earliest if you have any medical conditions.

HOW TO PREVENT ZIKA VIRUS: If available, use air-conditioned or screened rooms. Otherwise, use mosquito beds. Avoid sleeping outdoors and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

WHEN IS IT SAFE TO CONCEIVE: Sick men should wait for three months after the start of symptoms. Men with a travel history to affected areas should wait for three months as well. Women should wait two months after their journey or getting sick before trying to get pregnant.

WHY MEN NEED TO CAREFUL: Zika virus stays in semen longer than in other body fluids.