Categories: Trending now

Zika Virus: No Zika fear in Vidarbha, medical experts assure residents | Nagpur News

2024-07-06 09:05:02

Nagpur: Amid rising concerns over Zika virus cases in western Maharashtra, medical professionals in Nagpur assured residents that there is no immediate threat. Experts from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Nagpur, and infectious disease specialists provided clarity on the situation and government advisories, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures for expectant mothers.
Infectious disease specialist Dr Nitin Shinde said that Zika virus is primarily a travel-related disease with limited cases. He advises pregnant women to remain vigilant about any viral infections, noting that prompt medical consultation is crucial. “In the past three years, many samples were sent for Zika testing from Nagpur, but none tested positive,” he said.

Dr Nivrutti Pawar, district civil surgeon for Nagpur, reassured that while the central govt has issued advisories following cases in other parts of Maharashtra, there is no need for panic in Nagpur and Vidarbha. “We have alerted all hospitals and healthcare facilities to report any suspected Zika cases,” he added.
Epidemiologist Anand Thatte offered an intriguing perspective, suggesting that the prevalence of the dengue virus in Vidarbha might inhibit the spread of Zika. “Although it’s not official, I believe the dengue virus is overpowering Zika in this region since the same mosquito species spreads both viruses,” he explained.
IMA Nagpur president Dr Manjusha Giri said that the medical community is vigilant, particularly in monitoring viral infections in pregnant women. “Doctors are already on high alert due to cases found in Pune,” she said, emphasizing the seriousness with which viral infections in pregnant women are taken.
Free diagnostic facilities for Zika are available at the National Institute of Disease Diagnosis in New Delhi, the National Institute of Virology in Pune, and VRDL Laboratories at Nagpur, Miraj, Solapur, Akola, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. According to the health department, there is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
Aedes mosquitoes primarily spread Zika virus. Symptoms include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache, typically lasting 2-7 days. Pregnant women are particularly at risk as Zika can cause congenital malformations like microcephaly. Preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and ensuring living areas are mosquito-free. Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with Zika outbreaks and seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms.

We also published the following articles recently

NIV finds no trace of Zika virus in mosquito samples
Read about the latest findings from the National Institute of Virology regarding the absence of Zika virus in mosquito samples from Pune’s Erandwane and Mundhwa areas. Experts stress the need for ongoing monitoring and preventive measures for vector-borne infections.
Zika Virus cases on the rise in India: What you need to know
Learn about the impact of monsoon rains on mosquito-borne diseases like Zika virus in India. Understand the factors contributing to disease transmission and how to prevent outbreaks. Stay informed to protect your health during the monsoon season.
AD
News Today

Recent Posts

Kareena Kapoor’s Next Untitled Film With Meghna Gulzar Gets Prithviraj Sukumaran On Board

Kareena Kapoor is working with Raazi director Meghna Gulzar for her next film. The project,…

17 hours ago

Purdue basketball freshman Daniel Jacobsen injured vs Northern Kentucky

2024-11-09 15:00:03 WEST LAFAYETTE -- Daniel Jacobsen's second game in Purdue basketball's starting lineup lasted…

17 hours ago

Rashida Jones honors dad Quincy Jones with heartfelt tribute: ‘He was love’

2024-11-09 14:50:03 Rashida Jones is remembering her late father, famed music producer Quincy Jones, in…

17 hours ago

Nosferatu Screening at Apollo Theatre Shows Student Interest in Experimental Cinema – The Oberlin Review

2024-11-09 14:40:03 A silent German expressionist film about vampires accompanied by Radiohead’s music — what…

17 hours ago

What Are Adaptogens? Find Out How These 3 Herbs May Help You Tackle Stress Head-On

Let's face it - life can be downright stressful! With everything moving at breakneck speed,…

17 hours ago

The new Mac Mini takes a small step towards upgradeable storage

Apple’s redesigned Mac Mini M4 has ditched the previous M2 machine’s SSD that was soldered…

17 hours ago