Zikavír

Zikavír, also known as Zika virus, is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that was first identified in the Zika Forest of Uganda in 1947. Initially, it was primarily associated with mild febrile illnesses in humans, but its significance grew dramatically in the 21st century due to its link with severe congenital disabilities and neurological disorders.

Transmission of Zikavír primarily occurs through the bite of infected *Aedes* mosquitoes, particularly *Aedes aegypti* and *Aedes albopictus*, which are also vectors for dengue and chikungunya viruses. Less commonly, the virus can spread through sexual contact, blood transfusions, or from mother to fetus during pregnancy. Symptoms in infected individuals often include fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis, muscle pain, and headache, typically lasting 2–7 days. However, about 80% of infected people experience no symptoms, making asymptomatic spread difficult to detect.

The most concerning complication associated with Zikavír is congenital Zika syndrome, which can result in severe birth defects, including microcephaly (abnormally small head circumference) and other neurological impairments when the virus is transmitted from an infected mother to her fetus. Additionally, Zikavír has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening autoimmune disorder affecting the nervous system.

Outbreaks of Zikavír have occurred sporadically, but the most notable epidemic began in 2015 in Brazil, spreading rapidly across the Americas. Public health responses have included mosquito control measures, such as eliminating breeding sites and using insecticides, as well as public awareness campaigns to prevent bites and sexual transmission. There is currently no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Zikavír, though research into both is ongoing.

Diagnosis typically involves laboratory testing, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or serological assays, to detect viral RNA or antibodies. Prevention remains the primary strategy, emphasizing vector control, personal protective measures, and surveillance to monitor and contain outbreaks.