Expert highlights insights on symptoms & prevention as Zika virus infections surge in Maharashtra

Zika virus primarily spreads through Aedes mosquito bites, sexual contact, or from mother to fetus, potentially causing birth defects. Currently, no specific vaccines or treatments exist for Zika.

Many infected individuals show mild or no symptoms, including fever, rash, headache, joint and muscle pain, and red eyes, with rare hospitalizations or fatalities.

Prevention involves mosquito bite prevention and condom use due to Zika's persistence in semen. Diagnosis considers travel history and symptoms, using tests to detect the virus or antibodies.

Amid Maharashtra's Zika surge, public awareness, mosquito control, and awareness campaigns are critical to limit spread.