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Zika virus and its transmission is currently an important infectious disease topic in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. With domestic spread in the Continental United States, and the likely further spread to other parts of the southern United States, continued vigilance by healthcare providers remains important.
What are the signs and symptoms of Zika?
Most common signs and symptoms are:
- Fever
- Rash
- Arthralgias
- Conjunctivitis (generally nonpurulent)
Other symptoms can include
- Myalgias
- Headaches
- Retro-orbital pain
- Gastrointestinal upset
Symptoms can generally last 2 to 7 days. Most individuals will have minimal or no significant symptoms and may not seek medical care. These symptoms are similar to other arboviruses, such as dengue or chikungunya. Potential serious complications include Guillian Barre syndrome.
Of course, the main concern remains infection of pregnant women and the impact that Zika has on the developing fetus, especially for the brain.
References
https://www.cdc.gov/zika/symptoms/symptoms.html
Shastry S, Koenig KL, Hirshon JM. Zika Virus: Critical Information for Emergency Providers. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2016 Aug;34(3):e25-37.