While a pregnant woman may not show any signs of a Zika virus infection, which can cause a rash and fever, her unborn child may be at risk. Microcephaly is just one of several congenital disabilities and health problems that can result from it. Researchers have discovered that the virus affects mother-infant interaction and inhibits fetal growth in pregnant rhesus macaques. This discovery may lead to novel treatments. The findings revealed that out of 26 full-term pregnancies in women with Zika-related anomalies, 21 had healthy babies, and five miscarried. According to the researchers, brain abnormalities such as microcephaly were more than twice as common in cases of infection that occurred in the first trimester of pregnancy as in cases that happened in the second or third trimester.
Low amniotic fluid and ulcerative eye ulcers in mothers were among the other health issues associated with third-trimester infections.
As a baby’s brain grows inside, the skull expands to accommodate it. Rapid brain development can cause hearing and vision loss, seizures, developmental delay, mobility difficulties, and a small skull, among other medical issues.
Since its emergence in Brazil in 2015, the unusual Zika virus variant known as microcephaly has sparked worldwide concern. Zika syndrome, a brain disorder that can cause a variety of other health issues, has been linked to the condition.
New evidence from two sets of laboratory tests indicates that the virus damages baby brains directly and indirectly through placental disruption.
Researchers don’t know precisely what causes Zika-related microcephaly, but they believe the virus affects uterine fetal cells and damages the placenta, preventing the brain from developing typically. The virus has also been linked to a variety of other health issues, including neurological disorders and miscarriage.
New evidence from two sets of laboratory tests indicates that the virus damages baby brains directly and indirectly through placental disruption. The virus stunted brain growth in both groups of mice.
The first set revealed mitochondrial damage and shrinkage of fetal cells. The second group of subjects showed changes to the cellular components that control gait and equilibrium. Zika does harm neurons in the developing baby, and this new evidence supports previous research indicating that this harm can be transmitted to infants via the placenta.
Scientists say their findings highlight the need for improved methods to detect Zika infections in the womb during the third trimester and to closely monitor infected infants for impairments and other health issues after birth. They also emphasize the importance of women who are trying to start a family staying away from Zika-infested areas and using protective measures, such as condoms when having sexual relations.
They should also wait for symptoms to subside or for their last possible exposure to end before attempting to conceive again. Women who have engaged in sexual activity without protection should have access to instantaneous birth control.
