Zika Virus:
Zika Virus is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family and is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. The virus has an enveloped structure and a positive-sense RNA genome.

Diseases caused by Zika Virus:
Zika Virus infection is generally mild, and many individuals may not display symptoms. Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. While the majority of Zika infections are asymptomatic or cause mild illness, the virus gained global attention due to its association with severe birth defects, including microcephaly, when contracted by pregnant women. Zika can also be sexually transmitted, and there have been cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome linked to the virus.

Detection and Diagnosis of Zika Virus:
Diagnosing Zika Virus infections involves laboratory tests to detect viral RNA or the body’s immune response. Serological tests, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) provided here, can detect Zika-specific antibodies (IgM and IgG) in blood or other body fluids. Molecular methods like PCR are used to directly detect viral RNA in blood, urine, or other samples. Due to the potential impact on pregnancy, pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant are advised to take precautions against Zika virus exposure, including avoiding travel to affected areas.