A nurse is caring for a patient who recently traveled to a Zika virus transmission area. The patient presents with fever, headache, rash, and joint pain. What criteria are essential for the nurse to consider when suspecting Zika virus infection? (Select all that apply)

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should consider recent travel history to a Zika virus transmission area because Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, and it is more likely for the patient to have contracted the virus if they have recently been in an area where the virus is actively transmitted.

Choice B rationale:

The presence of fever, headache, rash, and joint pain are essential criteria for suspecting Zika virus infection because these are common symptoms associated with the disease. Fever and rash are particularly characteristic symptoms of Zika virus infection.

Choice C rationale:

Laboratory confirmation of Zika virus infection is not essential for suspecting the infection, especially in the early stages when the patient is presenting with symptoms. Zika virus diagnosis often involves clinical evaluation, recent travel history to transmission areas, and symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Exposure to blood transfusion is not a specific criteria for suspecting Zika virus infection. While Zika virus can be transmitted through blood transfusion, it is not a primary consideration when initially suspecting the infection based on the patient's symptoms and travel history.

Choice E rationale:

The use of aspirin for pain relief is not a criteria for suspecting Zika virus infection. It is not directly related to the disease and would not aid in the initial assessment and suspicion of the infection.