Brazil confirms link between zica virus and fetal brain defect

Zica was first medically identified as a new disease half a century ago. The virus, common in parts Africa, South America, Southeast Asia and some Pacific Islands, has until now been blamed for symptoms such as fever, mild headache, skin rashes, joint pain and conjunctivitis, or “red eye.” Initial analysis shows that the virus can be passed to a fetus and that the fetus is at greatest risk from the virus during the first three months of pregnancy, the statements said. More tests and studies are needed to clarify the exact method of transmission and infection, the statement added.

A recent surge, in babies born with microcephaly, or an unnaturally small brain, in Brazil’s northeast, led authorities to suspect the virus may have more sinister effects than previously recorded, the ministry said. Microcephalic children can suffer developmental and intellectual difficulties that limit intelligence and muscle coordination for life. Zica is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito also known to carry the yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya viruses.

The ministry said that the new information means that zica has become a serious risk to public health and that Brazil must embark on an emergency program to control the Aedes aegypti mosquito to prevent the virus’ spread.