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Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus, similar to dengue, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis and West Nile virus. The most common symptoms of Zika virus are muscle and joint pain, fever, asthenia, conjunctivitis and headache. Zika virus, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, has become a serious health concern in recent times. Apart from the physical symptoms, the neurological effects of the virus are also very worrying.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vivek Barun, consultant of neurology and epilepsy, department of neurology, Artemis Agrim Institute of Neuroscience, said, “Zika virus usually causes mild symptoms such as fever, rashes, and joint pains, but its neurological complications can be severe and permanent. These complications are particularly worrisome in specific populations, including pregnant women, infants, and individuals with pre-existing neurological conditions.”
Also read: Zika virus cases rise in Pune: Know all about this mosquito-borne infection
Microcephaly and Congenital Zika Syndrome
One of the most dangerous neurological effects of Zika is its relation to microcephaly, a condition in which infants are born with smaller-than-normal heads and underdeveloped brains. The virus crosses the placental barrier and infects fetal brain cells, impairing their development. This results in congenital Zika syndrome – abnormalities including microcephaly, brain calcifications and other neurological deficiencies.
Also read: Have you ever heard of the Zika virus? If not, read this handy guide to stay safe
Guillain Barre Syndrome
In adults, Zika virus infection has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare but serious condition in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system. GBS can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and respiratory failure in severe cases. Although the exact mechanism of the link between GBS and Zika virus is still under discovery, it is believed that the immune response is triggered by the Zika virus.
Other neurological manifestations
Zika virus can also cause encephalitis, meningitis and myelitis, although these are less common. Encephalitis and meningitis are about inflammation of the brain and its surrounding membranes, respectively, causing symptoms such as severe headache, fever, confusion and seizures. Myelitis, or inflammation of the spinal cord, can cause paralysis and sensory deficits.
“Zika virus poses significant neurological risks, particularly to developing fetuses and individuals susceptible to autoimmune reactions,” said Dr. Vivek Barun.
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