The length of time that people can be contagious after contracting a viral infection varies widely. The infectious period is generally one to two weeks, depending on the type of infection. Children are infectious for much longer than adults, and those with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to the disease. For example, chickenpox symptoms are contagious for two days before the spots appear, and for another four to five days after the spots have crusted over.
While there are many possible causes of this condition, Zika is unique in its ability to affect the reproductive system. When the immune system attacks the nervous system, the result is a syndrome called Guillain-Barre syndrome. It is a common complication of a viral infection and can lead to a range of symptoms. Symptoms include tingling and weakness in the arms and legs. In severe cases, the condition can lead to respiratory muscle paralysis. While most patients recover, some may experience persistent aches, pains, and weakness for months or years.
If you’re pregnant, it’s important to consult your physician as soon as possible to ensure that you are not at risk for a fetal health problem. Zika has the potential to cause Guillain-Barre syndrome, a condition in which the immune system attacks the nervous system, resulting in a range of symptoms, including muscular weakness and tingling. In rare cases, it can affect the respiratory system and require hospitalization. Although most individuals recover from the illness, some may still experience a certain degree of numbness and weakness for days or weeks.
If you are pregnant and have contracted the Zika virus, your doctor may want to see you as soon as possible. Women with possible exposure to the disease should abstain from sex for at least eight weeks. Men who have been exposed to the virus should wait at least six months. The CDC has advised pregnant women to postpone conceiving until the disease is under control. While you’re pregnant, you’ll want to talk to your doctor. You should have ultrasounds done every three to four weeks to be sure you’re not developing a baby.
A woman with Zika should consider getting pregnant after a few weeks. She should visit her doctor and avoid sex with those who have the virus. If she is pregnant, she should avoid mosquito bites for at least eight weeks. If she has sex with a person who has been exposed to Zika, she should abstain from sex until she is sure she has been infected.
According to the CDC, the average duration of an illness from Zika is one to six days. The disease is contagious and can cause serious complications for pregnant women. You should consult your doctor as soon as possible to avoid becoming infected with Zika. If you are pregnant, you should consult a doctor before having any sex. If you have the Zika virus, you should stay away from the affected area.
