Joint birth defect caused by Zika Virus

STATES CHRONICLE – Zika is one of the most dangerous viruses, especially as there is no official treatment for it and the symptoms are not always so easy to discover. What we do know is that the Zika Virus can affect all of us, but especially pregnant women. Their babies can be born with serious mental issues. According to a new report, a small number of babies infected with Zika virus have developed a rare joint birth defect.It is called arthrogryposis and it involves muscle weakness and stiff joints.

It has been already discovered that Zika cause microcephaly, which makes a child have an abnormally small brain and head. When it comes to the new joint birth defect they discovered, doctors consider congenital Zika as a possible diagnosis. They are still researching as they want to find out all the health problems this syndrome might involve.

Those babies, who have this joint birth defect, were born in Brazil. This is one of the first countries where Zika virus was discovered, in 2015. Moreover, six out those seven babies also had microcephaly and all of them were infected in the womb. So there is almost no doubt that Zika virus is responsible for their birth defects.

However, the study found only a link between Zika and arthrogryposis and them to have to do more research before proving that the virus is causing this condition. Doctors have to understand better the neurological problems of the babies and what can be done to help them. Children will be evaluated for bones and muscle problems hoping that the scientists will discover something new.

The Zika Virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito and can also be passed from pregnant women to her fetus. People should stay indoor as long as possible, avoid mosquitoes and go to the doctor if they do not very well.Zika can also be transmitted without using condoms so protect yourself.

There is no need to go the hospital as symptoms can last several days, but no longer than a week. If you are pregnant, you should be more careful because you have one more life to take care of. Even though people rarely die from it, Zika is one of the most biggest threats of this century, especially for the babies. Take care of your health and be aware of the danger Zika can be.

Image source: Wikipedia