New Delhi: Zika virus and dengue fever are both transmitted by infected Aedes species mosquitoes (Ae. aegypti or Ae. albopictus) bite but differ significantly in their viral causes, clinical symptoms, and potential health impacts. Zika virus is more infectious as compared to dengue. The majority of Zika virus cases are commonly found in children and pregnant women. Amid rising cases in Maharashtra, there are many afraid of the infection and the risks that may come with it.
How are dengue, Zika virus different?
While interacting with News9Live, Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastava, General Physician, Sharda Hospital, explained how Zika virus and dengue, despite being caused by mosquitos, are different from each other.
“Zika virus, a flavivirus, typically causes mild symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes (conjunctivitis). However, what distinguishes Zika is its association with neurological complications like Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults and congenital Zika syndrome in infants born to infected mothers. Congenital Zika syndrome can lead to severe birth defects such as microcephaly,” explained Dr Srivastava.
“On the other hand, dengue fever, caused by a flavivirus belonging to the Flaviviridae family, presents with sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and sometimes a rash. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which involve plasma leakage, bleeding tendencies, and organ impairment, posing significant risks without prompt medical attention,” he added.
Epidemiologically, dengue fever is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions globally, affecting millions annually, whereas Zika virus outbreaks have been more sporadic and localized. Management approaches also differ; dengue focuses on supportive care and fluid management, while Zika virus management includes symptomatic treatment and careful monitoring, particularly for pregnant women. In summary, while both diseases share mosquito vectors, their distinct viral strains, clinical manifestations, complications, and global distribution emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
While Zika virus and dengue share mosquito vectors, their distinct viral strains, clinical manifestations, complications, and global distribution emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
