To what extent does the Zika virus affect pregnancy, including uterine infections?

The Zika virus is a class of viruses transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes and found in tropical and subtropical climates. In general, people who are infected with Zika virus have no clinical problems or symptoms. However, mild fever, rashes, joint pain, headaches, red eyes, and discomfort can occur.

Zika Virus and Fetal Disorders

Some time ago, the Zika virus attracted attention because infection during pregnancy was associated with fetal miscarriage and congenital abnormalities such as microcephaly. Infants with microcephaly have smaller head circumferences than normal conditions.

In addition, microcephaly can also cause fatal brain disorders. Therefore the researchers want to deepen their research on the Zika virus. A study was conducted on infants with microcephaly. This disease is caused by infection of the uterus with the Zika virus.

As a result, 70% of the women interviewed felt uncomfortable, rashes, and joint pain. The majority of them become pregnant during the first trimester. Their babies are proven to be infected with Toxoplasma, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Syphilis or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection.

Symptoms and complications of Zika virus infection

Zika virus can be transmitted through blood transfusions, sexual contact or transmission from mother to child. A child can be infected with the Zika virus, in the womb or at birth.

Most people with the Zika virus have no symptoms, both specific and non-specific. In cases of infection with the Zika virus, the following mild symptoms can occur:

fever
Rash
Headache
Red eye
Joint pain and muscle aches

The symptoms of the Zika virus can last for days or even weeks. In general, hospitalization is not necessary because the Zika virus infection is not dangerous. As a result, people with this disease are often not aware of infections.

Zika virus and its effects on pregnancy

Here are important facts that need to be known about the Zika virus.

1. Transmission:

The Zika virus can be transmitted vertically, from pregnant women to the fetus in the womb. Even mosquito bites and unprotected sex can transmit the Zika virus, even though the person who transmitted it does not show symptoms of Zika virus infection.

2. Infection:
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects in babies, called microcephaly, as well as other fetal brain disorders.

3. Treatment:

Until now, there is still no vaccine or drug to effectively fight the Zika virus.

4. Prevention:

Pregnant women are not advised to visit areas infected with Zika virus. If you are forced to visit or live in the area for a while, use mosquito lotion, sleep with mosquito nets, use condoms during sexual intercourse, and wear mosquito protectors when you visit mosquito nets. mosquito filled area.

You should always be aware of the symptoms of the Zika virus that appear during pregnancy. If you are at risk of infection or have symptoms that indicate a Zika infection, immediately contact your doctor or other medical staff.

Zika virus screening is not included in routine pregnancy checks. But in some cases, diagnostic tests for this virus can be done to prevent complications during pregnancy.