Zika Virus in Mumbai
According to confirmation from BMC, a 15-year-old girl has been reported to have Zika Virus. This is the second case reported so far. The first case was reported on 23rd August to a 79-year-old resident of Chembur. The old man suffered from an infection and recovered.
Both of these cases have been reported within a span of 15 days which makes it more concerning for Mumbai. The BMC has decided to take several actionable measures and precautions by conducting random samples in all of the wards. There have been a total of 5 cases in the entire state.
15-year-old Girl’s Case
The girl has no travel history so far. Initially, the treatment was sought at a private hospital where the PR test diagnosed her with Zika Virus. Later, she was shifted to Kasturba Hospital on Tuesday and was also kept in quarantine. According to doctors, her condition is stable now.
Nearby samples from the vicinity were collected too; however, no more cases have been found so far.
How the Zika Virus spreads?
The BMC has also increased the measures to curb the control of mosquitoes. Zika Virus is transmitted just like dengue and chikungunya via Aedes mosquitoes. The girl had symptoms of headache and fever since 20th August including other comorbidities. The BMC has asked people to not panic.
“Zika infection is a self-limiting disease. Around 80% of people infected with the Zika virus are asymptomatic. Those with comorbidities are likely to develop severe infections that may require hospitalization.”
– says the Civic Body.
Symptoms & Prevention
Common symptoms include fever, rashes on the skin, and muscle and joint pains. Others include headache, conjunctivitis, and malaise as well. As of now, there is no vaccine available for Zika Virus at the moment. The first case dates back to July 2021 in Pune followed by July 2022 in Palghar. The third was a 67-year-old man in Nashik district.
The prevention includes avoiding traveling to places of Zika transmission. Also, use mosquito repellents. For more safety, EPA-registered insect repellents can be used as they contain DEET and Picardin. Till then, please make sure to follow all necessary precautions and stay safe.
