Zika virus infection, pregnancy and microcephaly

Abstract

Vectors are living organisms which may transmit infectious disease. Mosquitoes are the best known infectious disease vectors. The purpose of the study is to carry out an updated review about disease caused by the zika virus. Immune and hormone disorders occurring during pregnancy enhance the severity of infection. Intrauterine infection may result in fetal death, spontaneous abortion or stillbirth. It may also interfere with fetal development, cause lesions or bring about congenital malformations of the brain (small brain, etc.) among other effects. zika virus infection is a disease caused by the bite of Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. In order for transmission to occur, three factors should be present simultaneously: the virus, the vector and a susceptible host. The World Health Organization has issued an epidemiological alert against the zika virus, due to its relationship to an increase in the number of babies born with microcephaly. In view of this situation, WHO has reinforced previous recommendations about diseases transmitted by the same vector, such as dengue, chikungunya and zika. Member states with circulation of Aedes mosquitoes are urged to carry on their efforts to implement an effective communication strategy aimed at reducing the density of the vector.