DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Infectious Disease

Zika Virus Disease

MODERATE

A mosquito-borne flavivirus infection causing mild illness in most, but associated with severe birth defects (microcephaly) when contracted during pregnancy and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes are vectors.

Global Affected

500.0K

Countries

33

Symptoms

Fever
Rash
Joint pain
Conjunctivitis
Muscle pain
Headache
Fatigue
Vomiting

Treatment Options

Supportive care
Rest
Hydration
Acetaminophen for fever/pain
Avoid NSAIDs/aspirin until dengue ruled out

Risk Factors

1Travel to endemic areas
2Mosquito exposure
3Pregnancy
4Unprotected sexual contact with infected person
5Blood transfusion (rare)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1RT-PCR (acute phase)
  • 2Serology (IgM ELISA)
  • 3Plaque reduction neutralization test
  • 4Clinical diagnosis in endemic areas

Prognosis

Usually self-limiting (2-7 days). Pregnant women: risk of fetal microcephaly, other CNS abnormalities. Guillain-Barré syndrome risk increased.

Prevention

  • Mosquito bite prevention
  • DEET repellents
  • Protective clothing
  • Window/door screens
  • Eliminate standing water
  • Safe sex practices
  • Travel precautions for pregnant women

Research Status

No specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available yet. DNA vaccine trials ongoing. Vector control remains primary prevention. Research into congenital Zika syndrome and long-term outcomes. Monoclonal antibody therapies in development.

Affected Countries

BrazilColombiaVenezuelaMexicoPRDominican RepublicHaitiCubaJMGuatemalaHNSVNICRPAUnited StatesIndonesiaPhilippinesSingaporeMalaysiaThailandVietnamIndiaBangladeshChinaJapanFranceItalySpainPortugalNetherlandsUnited KingdomGermany

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov
  • https://www.who.int
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.