How does Zika virus affect pregnant women?

Zika virus is a life-threatening infection that has severe effects on the health and development of the mother and the baby. This infection is caused by the bite of infectious Aedes mosquitoes , mainly Aedes aegypti. The name of the virus comes from the forest named Ziika, originating in Uganda where it was first detected. The risk of getting bitten by Aedes mosquitoes is higher during the day especially in the morning or mostly late in the evening.

Zika virus can be easily passed on from the mother to the fetus leading to several health issues. It can also be transmitted through sexual contact and blood transfusion. When an infected Aedes mosquito bites a pregnant woman, the virus gets dissolved into the bloodstream. It further spreads through various parts of the body and even the immune system. The virus can also cross through the placenta and cause serious harm to the unborn child. It can cause placenta transmission meaning that the virus has now passed through placenta barriers and entered the bloodstream of the fetus.

Zika virus can affect the brain and nervous system of the fetus. One of the most severe outcomes of the Zika virus is microcephaly , a type of condition where unfortunately the head of the baby is much smaller than expected as it has not been fully developed. Besides microcephaly, it can also lead to other birth defects like ventriculomegaly (a condition where the ventricles of the brain become enlarged) and calcifications (calcium buildup in the tissues). Babies born with after-effects Zika virus may face severe long-term health problems and also delay in overall growth and development of the baby.

It becomes crucial for pregnant women or those who are actively planning to conceive to take the necessary steps to prevent the risk of getting infected with the Zika virus. This can be achieved by avoiding traveling to areas with existing Zika virus cases, using mosquito repellents while going outdoors, avoiding stagnant water around the house as it creates the perfect environment for Aedes mosquitoes to breed, and wearing clothes like full selves t-shirts, kurtis that can protect them from getting bitten by mosquitoes. Immediately consult experts or doctors if you start to experience symptoms like joint and muscle pain, rev and swollen eyes, skin rash, and fever for prompt diagnosis.

(Author: Dr. Preethika Shetty, Consultant - Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi)