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Zika is an infection caused by a virus. The illness is usually mild and does not last long. Zika is known to affect brain development in babies whose mothers had the infection during pregnancy, with many cases being reported in Brazil. These babies have been born with microcephaly – they have small heads with brains that have not developed as they should.
Rash, fever, eye infections, muscle and joint pains. Most people will have no symptoms at all.
How do you catch zika virus?
Zika virus is spread by a daytime-biting mosquito.
Incubation period
3 – 12 days
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests.
Prevention
Zika can be prevented by taking steps to avoid mosquito bites – by wearing loose-fitting clothing and using an effective insect repellent. It is known that Zika virus can be spread through sex, especially from male partners. Precautions should be taken by both men and women whilst in high risk areas and for a period of time afterwards, as advised by a travel health nurse.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for Zika infection apart from rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking medication for fever or pain.
Medical Director, MASTA
PhD MSc MBBS MRCGP FRCPCH FFPH FFTM RCPS(Glasg.) FRCP(Glasg.)
GMC No. 3115417Professor David Ross OStJ is the Medical Director of MASTA and has been associated with MASTA since 2005. He served 41 years in the Army, including over 10 years as senior advisor on public health to the UK Surgeon General. In 2012 he was appointed the Parkes Professor of Preventive Medicine, in 2014 an Honorary Queen’s Physician and in 2023 an Officer in the Order of St John.