Which virus is associated with microcephaly?

Microcephaly & Other Birth Defects Zika virus infection during pregnancy is a cause of microcephaly. During pregnancy, a baby’s head grows because the baby’s brain grows.

What disease causes microcephaly and miscarriages?

Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause infants to be born with microcephaly and other congenital malformations, known as congenital Zika syndrome. Infection with Zika virus is also associated with other complications of pregnancy including preterm birth and miscarriage.

What caused the Zika virus outbreak?

Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). These mosquitoes bite during the day and night.

Can you outgrow microcephaly?

Microcephaly is a lifelong condition that has no cure. Treatment focuses on preventing or reducing problems and maximizing a child’s abilities. Children born with microcephaly need to see their healthcare team often. They will need tests to track the growth of the head.

What is the life expectancy of microcephaly?

The prognosis for a child who has microcephaly depends on the other medical conditions the child has. In general, life expectancy for children who have microcephaly is reduced, and the prospects of attaining normal brain function is poor.

Which country has the most Zika virus?

Currently, India is the area with the most cases being currently reported in Asia. As of November 2018, 159 confirmed cases were reported in 2018. Thailand has also reported cases in recent years. In 2018, 568 cases were reported across the country and in 2019, 48 cases have been reported as of June.

Is there a vaccine for Zika?

Although Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is typically self-limiting, other associated complications such as congenital birth defects and the Guillain–Barré syndrome are well described. There are no approved vaccines against ZIKV infection.

Can babies outgrow microcephaly?

There’s no cure for microcephaly. Treatment options depend on how severe your baby’s condition is. Babies with mild microcephaly often don’t have other health problems, but they still need regular check-ups so their health care provider can check their growth and development.