Zika Virus: An Overview
Zika Virus: Long-Term Effects on Babies and Pregnant Women
The Zika virus, a mosquito-borne disease belonging to the flavivirus family, has been reported in various regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This virus can pose significant risks, particularly during pregnancy, as it can lead to severe neurological and developmental problems for unborn babies.
Severe Neurological and Developmental Issues for Babies
Studies have shown that prenatal Zika exposure is associated with a range of adverse effects on babies. The risk of microcephaly, a condition characterised by an abnormally small head and brain, increases by approximately 3.6 times. Similarly, the risk of neurological abnormalities, auditory deficits, and central nervous system (CNS) imaging alterations also increases significantly.
- Microcephaly: A 3.6-fold increased risk
- Neurological abnormalities: A 5.6-fold increased risk
- Auditory deficits: A 9.2-fold increased risk
- CNS neuroimaging alterations: Over 22-fold increased risk
These brain and neurological effects often lead to severe developmental disabilities, and many cases of such abnormalities can be attributed directly to prenatal Zika infection.
Adverse Birth Outcomes for Pregnant Women
Pregnant women with symptomatic Zika infection are also at significantly higher risk for adverse birth outcomes such as congenital anomalies, preterm birth, low birth weight, low Apgar scores, and neonatal death.
Mother's Health and Future Pregnancies
Although the adult infection itself is usually mild or asymptomatic, it can rarely cause Guillain-Barré syndrome, a serious nervous system condition. For future pregnancies, there is currently no evidence that Zika virus infection, once cleared from the blood, poses risks to subsequent pregnancies. However, due to the persistence of the virus in semen and blood for variable periods, pregnant women or those planning pregnancy are advised to avoid exposure and wait before trying to conceive after possible infection.
Prevention and Monitoring
To prevent Zika infection, especially among pregnant women, it's crucial to implement mosquito control measures in endemic areas and take travel precautions when visiting Zika-affected regions. Insect repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, wearing protective clothing, eliminating standing water, using screens and mosquito nets, and staying informed about Zika virus areas are effective strategies to reduce mosquito populations and prevent Zika transmission.
Regular monitoring throughout pregnancy can help ensure the health of the baby if Zika is suspected. Pregnant women exposed or infected should consult healthcare providers for monitoring and guidance, and avoid travel to high-risk areas when possible.
Key Long-Term Effects for Babies Born to Zika-Infected Mothers
| Effect | Approximate Relative Risk Increase | Consequences | |-------------------------------|------------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Microcephaly | ~3.6x | Small brain, developmental delay | | Neurological abnormalities | ~5.6x | Cognitive and motor impairments | | Auditory deficits | ~9.2x | Hearing loss or impairment | | CNS imaging alterations | >20x | Structural brain damage | | Congenital anomalies (overall)| >2x | Birth defects affecting various organs |
For more information and guidance, consult your healthcare provider or local health department.
References: [1] World Health Organization. (2016). Zika virus: Situation report - 32. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/articles/detail/zika-virus-situation-report-32 [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Interim Guidance for Health Care Providers Caring for Pregnant Women with Possible Zika Virus Exposure - United States, 2016. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/65/wr/mm6504e1.htm [3] World Health Organization. (2016). Zika virus: Clinical management of Zika virus infection and congenital Zika syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/zika-virus-clinical-management-of-zika-virus-infection-and-congenital-zika-syndrome [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Zika Virus: Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/zika/faq/index.html [5] World Health Organization. (2016). Zika virus: Situation report - 24. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/articles/detail/zika-virus-situation-report-24
Science indicates a heightened risk of neurological and developmental issues in babies born to Zika-infected mothers, as shown by the increased chances of microcephaly, neurological abnormalities, auditory deficits, and central nervous system (CNS) neuroimaging alterations. Health-and-wellness concerns for pregnant women also extend to adverse birth outcomes such as congenital anomalies, preterm birth, and low birth weight, as well as the rare possibility of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
