ZIKA VIRUS INFECTION: AN OVERVIEW
Zika virus is a member of the virus family Flaviviridae and the genus Flavivirus is spread by daytime active Aedes mosquitoes, such as A. aegypti and A. albopictus. Zika virus is related to dengue, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and West Nile viruses. Zika virus which was recently in news as it leads to microcephaly birth defect and often causes no or only mild symptoms, similar to a mild form of dengue fever. It is treated by rest and cannot be prevented by medications or vaccines. There has been total death of 152 as of 21 October 2015 in the world. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other governments or health agencies issued travel guidance on affected countries, including the use of enhanced precautions, and guidelines for pregnant women including considering postponing travel. This review focuses on understanding Zika virus, its transmission, structure, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.