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Updated: Mar 24, 2026
Zika Virus Infectious Cell Culture System and the In Vitro Prophylactic Effect of Interferons
Published on: August 23, 2016
First case of imported Zika virus infection in Spain
Pablo Bachiller-Luque1, Marta Domínguez-Gil González2, Jesús Álvarez-Manzanares3
1Internal Medicine, University Hospital Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain.
Abstract:
We report a case of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in a patient with diarrhea, fever, synovitis, non-purulent conjunctivitis, and with discreet retro-orbital pain, after returning from Colombia in January 2016. The patient referred several mosquito bites. Presence of ZIKV was detected by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) in plasma. Rapid microbiological diagnosis of ZIKV infection is needed in European countries with circulation of its vector, in order to avoid autochthonous circulation. The recent association of ZIKV infection with abortion and microcephaly, and a Guillain-Barré syndrome highlights the need for laboratory differentiation of ZIKV from other virus infection. Women with potential risk for Zika virus infection who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant must mention that fact during prenatal visits in order to be evaluated and properly monitored.
Insights
A Zika virus (ZIKV) infection case was identified in a traveler returning from Colombia. Early laboratory diagnosis is crucial for ZIKV to prevent its spread and manage associated health risks.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) poses a growing global health concern.
- Vector-borne diseases require vigilant monitoring, especially with international travel.
- The association of ZIKV with severe neurological and developmental conditions necessitates rapid diagnostic capabilities.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, synovitis, conjunctivitis, and retro-orbital pain after traveling to Colombia.
- The patient reported multiple mosquito bites during their travel.
- Zika virus (ZIKV) was confirmed via PCR in the patient's plasma.
Findings:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed ZIKV presence in patient plasma.
- The clinical presentation included a constellation of symptoms suggestive of arboviral infection.
- The case highlights the potential for ZIKV introduction into non-endemic regions.
Implications:
- Rapid microbiological diagnostic methods for ZIKV are essential in Europe to prevent autochthonous transmission.
- Accurate laboratory differentiation of ZIKV from other infections is critical due to its association with microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy with potential ZIKV exposure require careful evaluation and monitoring during prenatal care.
