zikaviruksen

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that was first identified in Uganda in 1947. It is primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. While most Zika infections are asymptomatic or cause mild symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis, the virus can have serious consequences, particularly for pregnant women.

Infection during pregnancy can lead to microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. Zika virus is also a sexually transmitted infection and has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a neurological disorder.

There is no specific vaccine or treatment for Zika virus. Prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites through the use of insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Sexual transmission can be prevented by using condoms.

Outbreaks of Zika virus have occurred in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. The most significant outbreak was in Brazil in 2015-2016, which led to a surge in microcephaly cases. Continued surveillance and research are important for understanding and controlling the spread of Zika virus.