Don't be afraid of the Zika virus, let's be fully informed!

When you think of mosquitoes, the first thing that comes to mind is diseases like dengue and chikungunya, right? But have you heard of another virus that is transmitted by these same mosquitoes, and which can pose a great risk, especially to pregnant mothers and unborn children? That is the Zika virus. Don't be afraid when you hear this name. The most important thing is to be fully informed about it and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. So today, let's talk about this Zika virus in a very simple and friendly way.

What is the Zika virus? How do we get it?

Simply put, Zika is a virus. It was first discovered in Uganda in 1947. The virus is transmitted to us mainly by Aedes mosquitoes . You may recall, these same mosquitoes also spread diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya virus. Here's what happens: When a mosquito bites someone infected with the Zika virus and then bites a healthy person, the person also gets the virus.

But what's special about this is that the Zika virus can be transmitted not only through mosquitoes, but also through sexual intercourse . An infected man or woman can transmit the virus to their sexual partner, even if they don't show symptoms.

Even more dangerous, and something we should all be concerned about, is that an infected pregnant mother can pass the virus to her baby in the womb . This can cause serious birth defects in the baby. We'll talk about that in more detail in a moment.

What are the symptoms of Zika?

Not everyone infected with the Zika virus will show symptoms. In fact, only one in five people infected will develop symptoms. The remaining four will recover without any symptoms.

For someone who develops symptoms, these are what to expect:

• Common fever
• A skin rash
• Joint pain
• Red eyes (conjunctivitis or pinkeye)

These symptoms usually appear between 3 and 14 days after the mosquito bite. And these symptoms usually subside on their own after a few days to a week.

What are the risks to a pregnant mother and her unborn child?

This is where we all need to focus the most when talking about the Zika virus. Some babies born to pregnant mothers infected with the Zika virus can have a condition called microcephaly .

Simply put, microcephaly is a condition in which a baby's head and brain do not develop properly in the womb . This results in the baby's head being abnormally small. This can cause serious, sometimes life-long brain damage. In some cases, it can even lead to miscarriage or stillbirth.

In addition to microcephaly, Zika virus can cause several other birth defects. Together, these are called congenital Zika syndrome . These can include:

• Decreased brain tissue and calcium deposits indicating brain damage.
• Damage to the back of the eye.
• Limited range of motion in joints such as clubfoot.
• Unnecessary tightening of the muscles of the body.

It's understandable to feel scared when you hear this information. But more important than being scared is doing your best to protect yourself from mosquitoes during pregnancy and when planning to get pregnant.

Is there a treatment for the Zika virus?

At this time, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for the Zika virus. But don't worry. Most people with symptoms recover with standard treatments.

Your doctor will often advise you to:

• Rest well.
• Drink plenty of fluids such as water and fruit drinks.
• Take medicines such as Paracetamol for fever and pain.

Can other health problems occur?

Very rarely, the Zika virus can be associated with a condition called Guillain-Barre syndrome . This is when the body's immune system attacks the nervous system. This can cause temporary paralysis, especially in the legs. However, this is a very rare complication.

How can we protect ourselves from the Zika virus?

Since there is no cure, the best thing to do is to prevent the disease from developing. We can all contribute to this.

1. Avoid mosquito bites:

• Use mosquito repellent: Apply repellents recommended by health authorities, especially those containing ingredients such as DEET and Picaridin, to your skin even during the day.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants that cover your body well.
• Protect your home: Install screens on windows and doors. Use mosquito nets when sleeping.

2. Destroy mosquito breeding sites:

• These Aedes mosquitoes lay their eggs in clean, stagnant water. Therefore, regularly clean all places where water can collect in the garden and around the house, such as tires, cans, coconut shells, flower pots, saucers, and rain gutters .

3. Avoid sexual transmission:

• If you are a pregnant couple: If your partner has traveled to an area where there is a risk of Zika, it is very important to use a condom during sex or abstain from sex throughout your pregnancy.
• If you are planning to have a baby: If you have traveled to a Zika-risk area, health officials recommend delaying pregnancy for at least 2 months for women and 6 months for men. It is wise to use condoms during this time.