Zika virus disease

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Zika virus disease (pronounced /ˈziːkə/ ZEE-kə) is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

Etymology

The Zika virus was first isolated in 1947 and is named after the Zika Forest in Uganda where it was discovered. The term "Zika" is derived from the Luganda word meaning "overgrown", as the forest is dense and tropical.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Most people infected with Zika virus won’t even know they have the disease because they won’t have symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache.

Diagnosis of Zika is based on a person’s recent travel history, symptoms, and - as necessary - blood or urine tests.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika virus. Treatments are focused on relieving the symptoms. Prevention centers on avoiding mosquito bites in areas where the disease is prevalent.

Related Diseases

Zika virus disease is related to other diseases spread by mosquitoes, such as Dengue fever, Yellow fever, and Chikungunya.

See Also

External links

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