Debosmita Ghosh • 18 Jul 2024
Zika Virus Cases Increasing In Maharashtra; Here Are Things You Must Know
Surge In Zika Virus Cases In Maharashtra
Maharashtra has reported a total of 28 Zika virus cases. Of these, 24 have been reported in Pune only and the city has reported three new cases of infection. The three new Zika virus cases reported in Pune include; a woman (27) from Kothrud; a man (49) from Lohegaon and a girl (14) from Tulshibaug Colony, Sahakar Nagar; said Dr Kalpana Baliwant, health officer of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
The 27-year-old woman had fever, rash and joint pain. Her samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune on July 6 and the NIV reports received on July 16 confirmed Zika virus infection, said a report in Hindustan Times.
The samples of the 49-year-old man were sent to NIV on July 7 and he tested positive on Tuesday. The man is suffering from a cardiac ailment and has recently undergone angioplasty, said Dr Suryakant Devkar, assistant health officer of the PMC. On the other hand, the 14-year-old had symptoms such as fever, rash and headache. Her samples were sent to the NIV for testing on July 8 and the NIV reports confirmed Zika virus infection on Tuesday.
Dr Baliwant also said that 12 other samples of suspected patients have been sent to NIV. Of these, seven samples are from pregnant women. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has reported 24 cases of Zika virus infection and this includes 10 pregnant women.
Zika virus, also known as Zika fever is primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito from the Aedes genus, mainly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes usually bite during the day, especially in early morning and late afternoon/evening. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to foetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products and organ transplantation.
Complications of Zika Virus
People who get infected with the Zika virus have a risk of developing Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) which is an autoimmune disorder that can cause weakness and paralysis. Experts say that a small number of people, about 2 in 10,000, can develop the disorder.
Zika virus infection can be dangerous for pregnant women due to its severe impact on foetal development. When a pregnant woman contracts the virus, it can be transmitted to the foetus which can cause several congenital abnormalities which are known as Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS).
One of the most severe impacts of the virus on the foetus is microcephaly. This is a condition wherein the baby’s head and brain are significantly smaller than normal which eventually leads to intellectual disabilities and developmental delays.
Other complications of CZS include vision and hearing defects, joint and limb abnormalities, and impaired growth. The virus can also increase the risks of miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm birth.
Prevention of Zika Virus
Here, take a look at some of the preventive measures for Zika virus.
- Avoid Mosquito Bites: Use insect repellent that has DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil. These help in repelling mosquitoes.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Light-coloured clothing is preferable, as it makes it easier to spot mosquitoes.
- Use Mosquito Nets: Sleep under a mosquito net if you are in an area with a high risk of Zika. This is especially important for pregnant women
- Get Rid of Standing Water: Remove standing water in and around your home. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so make sure to empty, clean or cover containers that have water.
- Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms or refrain from sex if you or your partner live in or have travelled to areas with the Zika virus.