What is Zika virus: The most serious effect of Zika virus is on pregnant women. If a pregnant woman is infected with Zika virus, it can be dangerous for the baby in the womb. The Center on Wednesday issued an advisory to all states in view of Zika virus cases in Maharashtra. Zika virus cases have been found in some parts of Maharashtra. The Union Health Ministry issued an advisory to all states and directed them to keep a close watch on the situation across the country. States have been urged to focus on Zika virus testing of pregnant women and monitor the development of the fetus of women found infected.
Apart from the advisory issued by Director General of Health Services Dr Atul Goyal, the ministry also directed the appointment of a nodal officer from health facilities who will monitor and take action on infections caused by Aedes mosquitoes. Zika virus infection is spread by the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. This mosquito also causes dengue and chikungunya. As of July 2, 2024, six cases of Zika have been reported in Pune and one each in Kolhapur and Sangamner.
What are the Symptoms of Zika virus?
The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that is mainly spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which are similar to dengue and chikungunya mosquitoes. The virus was first found in the Zika forest of Uganda in 1947, and it is also named from there.
Zika virus infection is often mild and its symptoms can be minimal. But when they do appear, they usually include:
Fever: Mild fever may occur.
Rash: Reddish rashes may appear on the skin.
Joint pain: Pain may occur, especially in the small joints of the hands and feet.
Muscle pain: General muscle aches may occur.
Headache: Mild to moderate headache may occur.
Eye irritation: Redness or irritation may occur in the eyes.
The most serious effect of Zika virus is on pregnant women. If a pregnant woman is infected with Zika virus, it can be dangerous for the baby in the womb. It can cause microcephaly (smaller than normal size of the baby’s head) and other serious brain defects. In addition, Zika virus can also increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth in the uterus.
Treatment of Zika Virus:
Rest: The patient is advised to take adequate rest.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Pain reliever: Medicines can be used as per the doctor’s advice for joint and muscle pain.
Medical advice: Consultation with a doctor is necessary before using any medicine.
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Prevention:
Protection from mosquitoes: Use mosquito nets, mosquito repellent creams and sprays to avoid mosquito bites.
Open clothes: Wear open and light-colored clothes that cover most of the body.
Do not allow water to accumulate: Do not allow water to accumulate around you, as this is the place where mosquitoes breed.
Timely health checkup: If you are traveling to a Zika-affected area, make sure to get a health checkup done before and after the trip.
Awareness and correct information is very important to avoid Zika virus infection. Taking the right steps for its prevention and treatment is the most important thing.
News and Information Data Source: livehindustan
