As the monsoons hit the country providing much-needed respite from the extreme heat, the rainy season also brings forth a host of water-borne diseases like the rise of Zika virus.
The cases of Zika virus have been reported from several parts of the country and the Centre has alerted states asking them to keep a constant check.
People need to exercise caution and keep themselves aware about the spread of the virus and what can be done if infected.
Tips to Follow if Affected by Zika Virus
- It is important to not panic and seek medical attention immediately at the right time. Unnecessary delays can cause complications.
- One should not self-medicate any illness and undertake all the relevant measures to stay protected and safe.
Dos and don’ts
- People detected with the virus must should stay indoors, take rest as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids.
- Pregnant women should not travel, especially to infected areas.
- The only way to prevent infection from the Zika virus is to reduce the risk of being bitten by a mosquito.
- People should sure that all pots and buckets around them are emptied so that mosquitoes cannot breed in such stagnant water.
Precautions To Undertake
- Make sure doors and windows are closed, especially if you live in an area where mosquitoes are prevalent.
- Wear full-sleeved clothes, especially when going outdoors and for children who go out to play.Apply mosquito/ insect repellents
- Try to avoid outside food as much as possible and consume fresh homemade food.
- Ensure your home and indoor spaces are well ventilated.
- Avoid touching your nose and mouth with your hand, especially after coming from outside.
- Try to avoid visiting crowded places especially if you have a weak immune system.
- Always maintain basic hygiene and wash your hands as frequently as possible.
First Death in Karnataka After Man Tests Positive of Zika Virus
Few days ago, a 74-year-old man in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district died after being tested positive for Zika virus. The doctors however are yet to ascertain whether his death was directly caused by the virus as the patient had comorbidities.
As per media reports, the patient was admitted to a private hospital on June 18 and after testing his blood and urine samples, the hospital referred the results to McGann Hospital. Experts at the hospital went through the samples and forwarded them to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Bengaluru for a final report.
The NIV report confirmed that the patient was infected with Zika virus on June 21 and since then, he was under treatment.
Rise in Cases Among Pregnant Women
The resurgence of Zika virus has sparked concern among residents in Pune after six new cases were reported in the district. Health officials confirmed that among the reported cases, two were pregnant women, which further intensified worries about potential complications.
One of the affected, a 28-year-old woman from Erandwane, tested positive on Friday, June 28, with another 12-week pregnant woman also confirmed infected on Monday, July 1. Fortunately, both women are currently asymptomatic.
States have been requested to instruct the health facilities in the affected areas or those catering to cases from affected areas to screen pregnant women for Zika, monitor the growth of the fetus of expecting mothers who have tested positive for the infection and act as per Central government guidelines.
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