Abstract

ZIKA VIRUS IN INDIA: EMERGING TRENDS

Khanna J.*, Verma S. and Gupta M. C.

ABSTRACT

Zika virus disease is an emerging flavivirus disease in the Indian subcontinent. It is spread primarily by the bite of infected Aedes mosquito. In the recent past, the mutant form of zika virus has resulted in pandemic in the Americas, Africa and the Pacific. India is at high risk of zika virus transmission because of the high rate of international travel and conditions favourable for the growth of mosquito vector. The symptoms of zika virus disease are nonspecific and overlap with the diseases by other flavivirus like dengue and chikungunya. Only a battery of laboratory tests can differentiate among the infection by various flaviviruses. Newer molecules and vaccine are under investigation for treatment of infection by zika virus. Still much research needs to be done to establish the efficacy and safety of these molecules. Also effective implementation of policies by health planners is needed to prevent the spread of virus in India.

Keywords: Zika virus, Flavivirus, Aedes mosquito, Dengue, Chikungunya.