Zika Virus

ZIKA VIRUS DISEASE : The Zika virus is spread by infected Aedes sp. mosquitoes that bite in the early morning and late afternoon/evening. The same mosquitoes spread dengue and chikungunya viruses. In 2018, there were 127 confirmed instances (40 pregnant women) and two fatalities in Madhya Pradesh. Kerala reported Zika virus outbreak in July 2021. In November 2021, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh had reported more than hundred cases.

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Symptoms : Frequent minor symptoms include fever, rash, conjunctivitis (red eye), muscular and joint discomfort (malaise), and headaches (2–7 days). Symptoms are comparable to dengue and chikungunya fever.

 

Complication & Concern : Zika can be transferred from mother to foetus. Microcephaly (baby's head is smaller than predicted) and other congenital deformities can be caused by Zika virus infection during pregnancy. Preterm birth and miscarriage are linked to Zika virus infection. Infection with Zika virus causes Guillain-Barré syndrome, neuropathy, and myelitis in adults and older children.

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Diagnosis : Because Zika symptoms are similar to other infections, laboratory testing is required to diagnose Zika. PCR offers superior sensitivity, specificity, and speed than serological, enzyme immunoassay, and culture procedures. It is used to identify Zika virus in human serum/plasma samples and to diagnose Zika infection. Detection limit: 1000 copies/ml

 

Sample type : Serum/Plasma
Sensitivity and limit of detection : 1000 copies/ml
Reporting time : Same Day
Test Cost : Rs. 4500/-

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Transmission Of Zika Virus : 1. Aedes aegypti mosquito bite.
                                                      2. To the baby during pregnancy
                                                      3. Via sex.

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Treatment : No vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is available for Zika virus infection.