Zika Virus Disease and Associated Neurologic Complications
Lindsey M Duca1, J David Beckham2, Kenneth L Tyler2
1Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
The purpose of this article is to review what is currently known about Zika virus (ZIKV) disease and associated neurologic complications.
Recent Findings:
ZIKV is a mosquito-borne or sexually transmitted flavivirus rapidly spreading throughout the Americas. While ZIKV infection is usually asymptomatic, it may cause a non-specific illness with fever, rash, myalgia, headache, and/or non-purulent conjunctivitis. Additionally, ZIKV has been associated with a number of neurologic complications including microcephaly and other birth defects, Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningoencephalitis, myelitis, and various ophthalmologic abnormalities. Treatment for ZIKV disease is supportive. Those in ZIKV endemic areas should protect themselves from mosquito bites by wearing insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors, and/or using air conditioning or window screens when indoors. Furthermore, unprotected sexual intercourse should be temporarily avoided by those who recently traveled to endemic areas. Suspected ZIKV disease cases should be reported to local, state, or territorial health departments.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, though often asymptomatic, can cause fever and rash. It is linked to serious neurologic issues like microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome, requiring public health awareness and protective measures.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) is a rapidly spreading flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes and sexual contact.
- Prevalence is increasing in the Americas.
- ZIKV infection is typically asymptomatic or causes mild, non-specific symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Zika virus (ZIKV) disease.
- To summarize associated neurologic complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ZIKV disease and neurologic complications.
- Synthesis of findings on transmission, symptoms, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- ZIKV infection can manifest as fever, rash, myalgia, headache, and conjunctivitis.
- Associated neurologic complications include microcephaly, birth defects, Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningoencephalitis, and myelitis.
- Ophthalmologic abnormalities have also been reported.
Conclusions:
- ZIKV disease requires supportive treatment.
- Prevention strategies include mosquito bite avoidance and temporary abstinence from sexual intercourse for travelers to endemic areas.
- Reporting suspected cases to health departments is crucial.
