PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Mosquito
Explanation
Zika virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). These are the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya viruses. The virus gets its name from the Zika Forest of Uganda, where it was first isolated in 1947. Infection during pregnancy can cause a severe birth defect called microcephaly.
Key Points
- > Zika virus is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
- > It was first discovered in the Zika forest in Uganda in 1947.
- > The virus can pass from a pregnant woman to her fetus.
- > Zika infection during pregnancy is linked to a birth defect of the brain called microcephaly.
- > Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes).
- > Aedes mosquitoes primarily bite during daytime.
- > These mosquitoes also spread dengue and chikungunya.
Additional Information
Diseases and their Vectors
| Disease | Vector/Carrier | Pathogen Type |
|---|---|---|
| Zika | Aedes Mosquito | Virus |
| Dengue | Aedes Mosquito | Virus |
| Malaria | Female Anopheles Mosquito | Protozoa (Plasmodium) |
| Kala-azar | Sandfly | Protozoa |
| Rabies | Dog, Bat, Jackal | Virus (Lyssavirus) |
Memory Tips
- The A-Team: Aedes mosquitoes are responsible for Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya.
- Location connection: The name 'Zika' comes from the Zika Forest in Uganda.