Zika Virus: A Public Health Information and Warning

The Saturday, January 30, 2016 issue of The Philippine Star published the Department of Health advisory against Zika virus infection. This Monday, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the mosquito-borne Zika virus infection as a global health emergency.

What is Zika virus infection?

Zika virus infection is transmitted to humans via mosquito bite. The mosquito is Aedes aegypti, the same mosquito that transmits dengue hemorrhagic fever and chickungunya virus. The mosquito bites a person who is infected with Zika virus and transmits the virus when it bites another. The virus is transmitted to humans from the mosquito’s saliva. Research is being conducted on the possibility of Zika transmission through sexual contact from an infected sexual partner.

Is the Philippines included among the countries where Zika transmission is active?

Our country is not among the 28 countries and territories where Zika virus transmission is active. However, dengue and chickungunya virus are prevalent in our country, and the mosquito that transmits aforesaid infections is the same mosquito that transmits Zika. Thus, we can be at risk of having an outbreak of Zika.

What does it do to the body?

A person who gets the virus may suffer from fever, rash, joint pains, and sore eyes (conjunctivitis). The symptoms are usually mild and may not require hospitalization. The symptoms last from 2 up to 7 days. One in five people with the virus do not show symptoms.

What are the complications related to Zika?

Pregnant women and women who are thinking about getting pregnant are warned by WHO. Infants born to Zika infected mothers were found to have abnormally small head (microcephaly) because of incomplete brain development. Microcephaly may result to delayed infant and child development.

Other complications

Studies are currently being conducted as regards its association with a paralysis called Guillain-Barre Syndrome that usually results after a bout of virus or bacterial infection. Guillain-Barre paralysis is reversible.

Treatment and Prevention

When sick, drink plenty of water and fluids. Take common medicines for fever and pain. Eradicate breeding sites of mosquitoes. Wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirt and long pants. When in doubt and in the persistence of illness, see your doctor. Whenever possible, postpone travel to countries where Zika virus transmission is active.