Reducing the spread of viral illnesses is of crucial importance to countries around the world. One such viral illness is Zika virus, a mosquito-borne illness that can be extremely dangerous for pregnant women and their children. In a report from Outbreak News Today, the News Desk shares that two Zika virus cases were recently identified in Budapest, Hungary.
Both travelers who were diagnosed with Zika virus had been traveling through Thailand when they became infected. Although both were symptomatic, their symptoms were mild and manageable. The virus was acquired abroad and there are no domestically occurring cases of Zika virus in Hungary. Because of this, the leading health centers have all stated that there is no threat domestically and that Zika virus will not turn into an epidemic within Hungary.
What is Zika Virus?
Zika virus is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitos; these mosquitos bite, largely, during the day. This virus was initially discovered in 1947. Since then, outbreaks have occurred in various parts of the world. Currently, Zika virus is most common in tropical Africa, the Pacific Islands, and Southeast Asia. Outside of mosquito-related transmission, this virus may also be transmitted through blood transfusions or from mother to child. The latter is dangerous as Zika virus may cause serious or life-threatening birth defects.
If you are traveling somewhere where Zika virus is more prevalent, make sure to protect yourself against mosquito bites. For example, mosquito nets, mosquito repellant, and long sleeves and pant legs can reduce bites and the risk of transmission.
Many people who contract this virus are asymptomatic, meaning they have no symptoms. In those with symptoms, they are often mild and appear within 3-14 days following infection. Symptoms may include headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, fever, fatigue and general malaise, and eye redness. These symptoms may last for around one week. In unborn children, this virus may cause microcephaly (an abnormally small head size) or neurodevelopmental defects.
Currently, there are no Zika-specific treatment options. Treatment may include antipyretics or analgesics, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting enough rest.
