Zika virus

A number of Europeans have been infected with the Zika virus. But what exactly is the Zika virus and how dangerous is it?

The Zika virus was discovered in Uganda 70 years ago. The infection is spread by tiger mosquitoes. Unlike malaria mosquitoes, tiger mosquitoes mainly bite during the day. The infection could also be passed on through saliva and sexual intercourse. The infection causes harmless flu-like symptoms. These can be treated with paracetamol. Mosquito repellent based on DEET can be used preventively.

In pregnant women, the virus is less harmless because it is passed on to the fetus. This leads to deformities such as a skull that is too small. There is currently an epidemic of the Zika virus in South and Central America. Several thousand babies have already been born with a head that is too small. Climate changes would allow tiger mosquitoes to survive better and expand rapidly. The Foreign Affairs advises pregnant women against traveling to countries in South America.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025