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The central government has issued an advisory for all the states on Wednesday. This advisory has been issued regarding the Zika virus recently found in Maharashtra. The government has urged all the states to maintain continuous monitoring by testing for this virus in pregnant women. The Center has also advised the states to keep a constant watch by checking the infection in pregnant women and monitoring the fetal development of pregnant women who test positive for Zika.
Alert to doctors for monitoring
The Ministry of Health and Welfare said in the advisory, “Since Zika is associated with microcephaly and neurological consequences in the fetus of an affected pregnant woman, states have been advised to alert doctors for monitoring. States are urged to instruct health facilities in the affected areas or those handling cases coming from the affected areas to check pregnant women for Zika virus infection, also monitor the fetal development of pregnant mothers who test positive for Zika.” Surveillance everywhere
The ministry has also stressed the importance of strengthening entomological surveillance and intensifying vector control activities in residential areas, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions and health facilities in the advisory. For timely detection and control of the virus, state authorities have been advised to remain alert, prepared and ensure availability of appropriate logistics at all levels.
Emphasis on raising awareness
The advisory said, “States are also requested to promote awareness through precautionary IEC messages on social media and other platforms to reduce fear among the society, as Zika is like any other viral infection, most of the cases of which are asymptomatic and mild. Although it is reported to be associated with microcephaly, there has been no report of Zika-associated microcephaly in the country since 2016.”
What is Zika virus?
Zika is a viral disease caused by Aedes mosquitoes, like dengue and chikungunya. It is a non-fatal disease. However, babies born to pregnant women affected by Zika have microcephaly (reduced head size), making it a major concern.
8 cases have been found
The first Zika case in India was reported from Gujarat in 2016. Since then, cases have been reported in several other states including Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Karnataka. As of July 2 this year (2024), 8 cases have been reported in Maharashtra, including 6 from Pune and one each from Kolhapur and Sangamner.
