PURPOSE: This article describes what pediatric healthcare professionals should 
know about Zika virus (ZIKV).
LITERATURE REVIEW: ZIKV is classified as an arthropod-borne, single-stranded RNA 
virus of the Flaviviridae family and genus Flavivirus. ZIKV is not new. The 
virus was first discovered almost 70 years ago in Uganda. The first isolate of 
the virus was found in rhesus monkeys in the Zika Forrest, hence the 
nomenclature. The primary route of ZIKV transmission to humans is through the 
bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito-primarily Aedes aegypti. When the 
mosquito bites individuals infected with the virus, mosquitos then become the 
vector of transmitting the infection to others. Women can also pass ZIKV to 
their fetus during pregnancy and at the time of delivery. ZIKV can also be 
transmitted through sexual activity from an individual who is infected with the 
virus to his or her partners. It is estimated that approximately 18% of 
individuals infected with ZIKV will go on to develop symptoms. When symptoms 
develop, it is usually within 3-12 days, although this may vary. Most often, 
symptoms are mild and self-limited. The most common symptoms are fever, 
arthralgia, maculopapular rash, and conjunctivitis lasting up to seven days. 
Less frequent symptoms include headache, vertigo, myalgia, vomiting, and 
diarrhea. At present, there is no vaccine available to prevent ZIKV and no 
specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care consisting of rest, hydration, 
analgesics, antihistamines, and antipyretics is recommended as needed. Given 
that there is no vaccine or treatment for ZIKV, considerable efforts must be 
focused on prevention. One of the most effective ways of preventing ZIKV 
infection is through avoiding mosquito bites, especially when traveling to or 
residing in areas where transmission is present. Precautions should include 
wearing appropriate attire with the objective of having as little skin exposed 
as possible, use of screens for windows and doors, and use of insect repellent.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: What is known about ZIKV changes continually. An 
infectious threat that was relatively obscure just a few months ago has now 
become a topic of heightened interest worldwide. Pediatric healthcare 
professionals must remain cognizant of evolving developments and emerging new 
evidence.