Do pregnant women need antibiotics for the Zika virus?
The spread of the Zika virus began to be discovered in the United States in 2016. Babies born to pregnant women infected with the Zika virus may have health problems, including microcephaly. Infants with this condition experience delayed growth of head and brain damage.
The Zika virus is also associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome, which attacks the immune system. Usually, the Zika virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. However, sex can also be a means of transmission.
Zika virus is transmitted by dengue fever
In fact, the Zika virus has existed since 1947. At that time, the virus was found in Uganda. The Zika virus is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which also carries the dengue virus (DH), yellow fever and chikungunya.
Mosquitoes that bite people with the Zika virus can transmit it to others who do. Many studies have shown that this virus can be found in the blood, sperm, urine, saliva and tears of an infected person.
Symptoms of Zika virus infection
Some of the symptoms of Zika virus infection are fever, rash, joint pain, and redness of the whites of the eyes. However, most people are not aware of an infection. Only one in five people infected with the Zika virus will have this symptom.
In fact, most people who are infected with the Zika virus have no symptoms. These symptoms can appear from the third day to the 14th after a mosquito bite. Symptoms will last from a few days to a week.
Zika virus in pregnant women
Seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these symptoms, especially during pregnancy. Similarly, if you have just visited the Zika virus endemic area.
Pregnant women with symptoms of Zika must undergo additional tests. The following are the effects of the Zika virus on pregnancy and the fetus.
1. Microcephalus in infants
Babies born to women with the Zika virus can develop microcephaly. In this situation, the baby has a head growth disorder. As a result, the baby's brain is badly damaged.
Sometimes Zika virus infection in pregnant women can cause miscarriage. Therefore, a medical examination is recommended for pregnant women at the beginning of the semester. Because in this period, the fetus is still aware of the formation of body organs.
2. fetal infection
Many studies have shown that a fetus can become infected. Apparently, microcephaly is not the only effect of the Zika virus on infants. This virus can cause a decrease in brain tissue, eye damage, and joint and muscle disorders.
Treatment for Zika virus infections
Until now, there is still no specific treatment for Zika virus infection. However, there are treatments to relieve various symptoms.
In addition to resting and consuming enough fluids, you will also be advised to take medications such as acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol). This class of drugs, useful for relieving fever and joint pain.
Unfortunately, a vaccine to prevent the Zika virus is not yet available. Similarly, antibiotics for viruses.
Prevention of Zika virus infections
If you plan to visit endemic areas, you should use mosquito lotion throughout the day. In addition, it is advisable to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, indoors and outdoors.
Because mosquitoes that spread the Zika virus are very active during the day. Especially outside. So, if you want to use sunscreen lotion, you can apply it first, before applying mosquito lotion.
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