As the Zika virus infection does not show any initial symptoms, it is very difficult to recognize it at that stage. Even some people develop symptoms like mild fever, rashes, headaches and a feeling of discomfort, the Zika virus infection can be misdiagnosed as other conditions like dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya or other infections that possess similar symptoms. So it is important to seek medical attention if one develops these symptoms after returning from regions where the Zika virus is common. The doctor will make a preliminary diagnosis of the Zika virus infection on the basis of the symptoms and the places who traveled. However, the doctor will be able to confirm the disease after getting some laboratory tests of blood and other body fluid samples such as urine or semen.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment available for the Zika virus infection. Symptoms of the Zika virus infection are quite mild, including fever and rash. However, if the symptoms get worse, then immediate medical care and advice are very necessary. Doctors may recommend certain medications to help one get over fever and headache. Doctors will also advise plenty of rest and fluids to recover quickly.
Pregnant women infected with the Zika virus or who develop similar symptoms should seek medical advice and other clinical care. If a woman pregnant or planning to become pregnant, she must avoid traveling to affected areas. If avoiding traveling is not an option, then she must try to seek medical advice to avoid the Zika virus infection and its associated birth-related defects. One must try speaking with their family physician or health care provider if his or her partner has lived in or traveled to Zika affected areas. They may recommend steps to prevent getting the Zika virus through sexual transmissions.
Prevention
Since there is currently no vaccine or treatment for the Zika virus infection, it is very important to keep stay safe from mosquitoes while traveling to areas infected with the Zika virus. Even if one is are living in tropical areas where the Zika virus is common, there are certain tips that will help one to stop the Zika virus outbreak.
Living in a well air-conditioned house
The mosquito that carries the Zika virus is very active from dawn to dusk, but they can bite also at night. So proper care should be taken to keep the surrounding areas of the house hygienic and devoid of any stagnant watery areas to discourage the breeding of mosquitoes. During the night, it is advisable to sleep inside mosquito bed net.
Use well protective clothes
During the day, if one is working in areas that are Zika virus dominant avoid light and half sleeves garments, instead try to put full sleeved shirts, long pants, proper socks, and shoes. Proper clothing ensures safety against these Zika infected mosquitoes.
Use of Mosquito repellent creams and lotions
There are various mosquito repellent creams available in the market which can be applied to the clothes, shoes, and bed that will act as an effective way to stay safe from Zika-virus-infected mosquitoes. Pregnant women can use mosquito repellent creams or lotions that are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency.
Although the Zika Virus infection is conserved within the tropical areas where the Aedes species of mosquito is common, it can outbreak at any corner of the world. So, precaution is the ultimate solution to avoid this disease as there is no specific treatment still available for this infection.
