Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Amid the rising Zika virus cases, health authorities have issued an advisory to all states, urging them to step up vigilance. Maharashtra has reported eight cases of Zika virus as of July 2, with six from Pune, one from Kolhapur, and one from Sangamner. Among the affected are two pregnant women, highlighting the need for immediate attention and preventive measures.
Zika virus disease (ZVD) is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes. While the disease is usually mild to moderate in adults, it poses a significant risk to pregnant women, as it can cause microcephaly in the fetus—a condition where the baby’s head is significantly smaller due to abnormal brain development. The first case of Zika was identified in 1947 in Uganda, and it has since spread to various regions including Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. It can also spread through sexual contact and from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infections during pregnancy can lead to severe birth defects, congenital malformations, preterm birth, and miscarriage.
Most people infected with the Zika virus do not exhibit symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they typically manifest 3-14 days after infection and are usually mild. Common symptoms include rash, fever, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. These symptoms generally last 2-7 days. Due to the similarity of symptoms with other diseases, laboratory confirmation is necessary for a definitive diagnosis of Zika virus infection.
There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection. Individuals experiencing symptoms like rash, fever, or joint pain should rest, stay hydrated, and take antipyretics or analgesics as needed. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided until dengue virus infections are ruled out due to the risk of bleeding. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms worsen.
Preventing mosquito bites is crucial to controlling the spread of the Zika virus. As there is no vaccine available for the prevention or treatment of Zika infection, individuals are advised to take protective measures against mosquito bites and avoid traveling to areas with known outbreaks.
With the increase in Zika virus cases, particularly in Maharashtra, it is imperative to follow health advisories and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread. Public awareness and proactive measures are essential in combating this mosquito-borne disease.
