Pathogenesis of Zika Virus

In this article, we will discuss about the Pathogenesis of Zika Virus. So, let’s get started.

Pathogenesis of Zika Virus

Zika virus is a member of the Flaviviridae family, the incubation period ranges between 3-12 days. Symptoms last for 4-7 days.

The transmission of Zika virus is through the bite of Aedes spp. mosquito, other routes of transmission such as blood transfusion, sexual contact, and vertical transmission has also been reported. Zika virus RNA is detectable in the blood within the first 10 days after infection. Following infection antibody and cell-mediated immune response is induced therefore IgM antibody appears 9 days (7-11 days) after infection followed by the appearance of IgG antibody 2-3 days after that. IgM antibodies remain detectable in blood for 2-3 months or even over 1 year, while IgG antibodies remain detectable for several months, years or sometimes provides lifelong protection. The virus is inoculated by the mosquito inside the human skin, it becomes the first site of viral replication and through the skin, it travels further to the lymph node where it further gets replicated causing viremia and hematogenous dissemination to peripheral tissues and visceral organs.

Pathogenesis of Zika virus in early pregnancy

Zika virus infection during pregnancy causes microcephaly, congenital zika syndrome, and other neurodevelopmental abnormalities in the child.