Zika Virus Infection is typically caused by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (A. aegypti and A. albopictus). These mosquitoes also transmit the dengue and chikungunya viruses. Spread of the Zika virus through blood transfusion and sexual contact has also been reported.
Patients with Zika virus infection may experience mild fever, conjunctivitis, exanthema, arthralgia, myalgia, headache, and general malaise that begins 2-7 days after getting bit by a mosquito.
There is no vaccine or specific drug to treat Zika virus infection. Treatment is supportive and consists of rest and drinking plenty of fluids.
Experts strongly suspect a causal relationship between Zika virus infection during pregnancy and microcephaly, but it has not yet been scientifically proven.
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