Difference between Zika virus, dengue and chikungunya explained

A 5-year-old girl from Karnataka was recently diagnosed with Zika virus infection, which is spread by Aedes mosquitoes.

Vector-borne diseases like dengue, Zika virus and chikungunya have recently been on a rise in different parts of the country.

All these three diseases are caused by mosquito-borne viruses. It is important to know about the symptoms of all three and the differences, for early detection and treatment.

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It can be difficult to differentiate between the three, as their symptoms are almost identical.

According to health experts, maculopapular itchy rash is frequently observed in both dengue and Zika virus, not in chikungunya.

Neurological involvement is mostly associated with Zika infection. It is rare in the other two infections.

High fever, headache, and retro-orbital pain (pain behind the eyes) are frequently seen in cases of dengue. Muscle aches and excruciating joint pain are more typical in Zika virus and chikungunya cases.

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A patient with dengue needs a lot of medical care and hospitalization in some cases. In dengue, the symptoms can persist and last for several weeks.

According to health experts, chikungunya and Zika virus patients tend to need less medical care as their symptoms can subside within a few days or weeks.

Symptoms like swelling and pain are higher in patients with chikungunya, compared to the other two infections.

Some people remain asymptomatic in the case of Zika virus. In other cases, patients can experience muscle pain, joint pain, headache and conjunctivitis.

It is important to see your doctor if you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms.

This is especially important if you are pregnant or have come in contact with someone else with an infection.

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Dengue affects mostly the limbs and face, while chikungunya can cause rashes on the face, hands, feet, and limbs.

Zika rashes are usually red spots that may be flat, raised or both. Symptoms in case of Zika virus are usually mild.

Epidemiologically, all three infections can occur across all ages. However, according to health experts, Zika has a significant burden of illness among children and pregnant females.

First-time dengue infections can be severe, especially for elderly and those having pre-existing medical conditions.

In case of chikungunya, people with severe risk include neonates exposed intrapartum, older adults above 65 years, and people with underlying medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.