Zika Virus: An Emergence of a New Arbovirus

Sankalp Yadav1, Gautam Rawal2, Mudit Baxi3

  • 1General Duty Medical Officer-II, Department of Medicine and TB, Chest Clinic Moti Nagar, North Delhi Municipal Corporation New Delhi, India .

Insights

A new Zika virus pandemic is emerging, causing alarm due to increased microcephaly cases in Brazil. Further research is needed, but precautions are currently the best protection against this mosquito-borne flavivirus.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • A novel mosquito-borne flavivirus, Zika virus, is causing a global health concern.
  • An alarming increase in microcephaly cases in Brazil has been linked to Zika virus.
  • The virus poses a significant threat, particularly to pregnant women and newborns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a concise review of the Zika virus.
  • To highlight the current understanding of Zika virus and its associated risks.
  • To emphasize the need for protective measures amidst limited knowledge.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on Zika virus.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data on Zika virus outbreaks.
  • Synthesis of current scientific understanding and public health recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Zika virus is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes.
  • A strong association exists between Zika virus infection during pregnancy and congenital microcephaly.
  • Limited data necessitates a precautionary approach to prevention.

Conclusions:

  • Zika virus represents a significant emerging pandemic threat.
  • Congenital abnormalities, particularly microcephaly, are a major concern.
  • Public health strategies should focus on prevention and control measures due to knowledge gaps.