Health Desk
3 July
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In response to recent cases of Zika virus emerging in Maharashtra, the Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to all states, urging them to maintain vigilant monitoring of the situation. The ministry has specifically directed attention towards the screening of pregnant women and the monitoring of fetal development if a test comes back positive.
Director General of Health Services has issued directives to health institutions to appoint a nodal officer to oversee the efforts. The Zika virus, which is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, is also responsible for spreading dengue and chikungunya. While Zika infection is generally not fatal, it can cause serious complications in pregnant women, such as microcephaly, a condition where the baby is born with an abnormally small head.
As of July 2, eight cases have been reported in Pune, Kolhapur, and Sangamner. The advisory emphasizes the importance of early detection and management to prevent the spread of the virus and to safeguard the health of pregnant women and their unborn children. The ministry’s proactive measures aim to ensure that the health infrastructure is prepared to handle any potential outbreaks.