By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
The Government of Kerala reported today on the situation of Zika virus in the state. According to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), 14 cases have been confirmed.
An emergency meeting was convened under the chairmanship of NK Kuttappan. It was decided to strengthen the monitoring activities by including various private hospitals in the district.
It was also decided to launch surveillance awareness activities at airports and ports. In the coming days, it has been decided to organize training programs for various sections including health workers, ward level RRT members and people’s representatives.
What’s happened to Zika? Is the outbreak in the Americas over?
Zika is generally a mild disease. It may cause a viral fever similar to dengue or chikungunya, with fever, skin rashes, body aches, and headache. But many people infected with the Zika virus infection do not even develop symptoms.
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The real concern is among pregnant women as the virus can cause microcephaly, a neurological disorder that results in babies being born with abnormally small heads, which in turn can cause severe developmental issues and sometimes death. A Zika infection may cause other birth defects, including eye problems, hearing loss and impaired growth.
Pregnant women with symptoms of possible Zika virus infection (fever and rash and other symptoms such as red eyes or joint pain) should seek medical attention immediately.
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