After detecting cases of the Zika virus in Maharashtra, the Ministry of Health has issued an advisory to all states on Wednesday. The Health Ministry has instructed states to monitor infection in pregnant women and keep a close watch on the development of fetuses in those infected with Zika. Healthcare facilities and hospitals have been directed to keep their premises free of Aedes mosquitoes. A nodal officer should also be appointed for surveillance and action.
The advisory urges states to strengthen monitoring in residential areas, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions, and healthcare facilities, and to intensify vector control activities.
On July 1, six individuals, including two pregnant women, were found infected with the Zika virus in Pune. Four cases were reported in the Erandwane area and two in the Mundhwa area. This virus spreads through the bite of the infected Aedes mosquito, which is also known to transmit infections like dengue and chikungunya. Initially identified in Uganda in 1947, this virus has since spread to various regions.
In pregnant women, the Zika virus can cause microcephaly (a condition where a baby's head is significantly smaller due to abnormal brain development).
What are the Symptoms of Zika Virus?
The symptoms of the Zika virus are quite common. They include red rashes on the body, fever, muscle and joint pain, and headaches. Most people infected with the Zika virus do not show symptoms.
What is the Zika Virus?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Zika virus is spread by the bite of an Aedes mosquito. The Aedes mosquito is also responsible for spreading dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. These viruses share similar characteristics and initially emerged in Western, Central Africa, and Southeast Asia. The Zika virus can spread from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby.
