Zika virus
Short description
The Zika virus is a flavivirus that is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. Infection often causes no symptoms or results in a mild febrile illness.
Detailed description
The Zika virus is found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions and is mainly transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. Transmission is also possible through sexual contact and can be passed from an infected pregnant woman to her unborn child. Many infections are asymptomatic. Possible symptoms include a rash, fever, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Infection during pregnancy can cause severe developmental disorders in the unborn child, including microcephaly and other neural tube defects.
