Zika is a virus that is spread by mosquitoes. The virus was first identified in 1947 in Uganda, and until 2007 it had only been identified in Africa and Asia. Since then, Zika has been identified in Africa, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America. Nonhuman primates (like some monkeys and baboons) are the source of infection in the wild. The virus has also been found in livestock, water buffalo, zebra, lions, ducks, rodents, and bats, but these animals have not been shown to spread the disease.
Animals can't spread Zika virus directly to people. People can't spread this infection directly to others, either, but an infected primate (or another person) can spread it to a mosquito when bitten, and that mosquito can pass it on.
Symptoms of Zika in Animals
Nonhuman primates (like monkeys and baboons) with Zika virus infection have either no symptoms or mild fever. As in people, the virus can cause birth defects in pregnant primates, particularly microcephaly (abnormally small head).
Diagnosis and Treatment of Zika in Animals
Testing for Zika in animals is mainly performed in a research setting or as a surveillance tool to keep track of the incidence of disease.
There is no treatment for Zika in animals or people.
Prevention of Zika
The best prevention for Zika virus infection is to protect against mosquito bites, with a combination of insect repellents, environmental control (like getting rid of standing water), and barriers such as clothing and mosquito netting.
Important Zoonotic Points Regarding Zika
Zika is caused by a virus that is spread by mosquito bites.
Animals don't spread this disease from one to another.
Animals don't get sick from this virus.
People can't get this disease from other people or animals.
Exceptions:
People working with the blood of infected people can get infected.
Pregnant women who are infected can infect their fetus.
Mosquito control is the most important step in disease prevention.
There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection.
