Zika Virus / 3 new patients of Zika virus in Maharashtra, know why this infection is dangerous

Zika Virus: Three new cases of Zika virus have been reported in Pune, Maharashtra. So far, 12 cases of this virus infection have been reported in the state. Pune Municipal Corporation Health Officer Kalpana Balwant gave this information. After the Zika virus cases were reported in Maharashtra, other states have also been asked to be vigilant. The Union Health Ministry had issued an advisory to all the states last week and directed them to keep a constant watch on the situation.

States have been urged to focus on getting pregnant women tested for Zika virus and monitor the development of the fetus of women found infected. Apart from the advisory issued by Director General of Health Services Dr. Atul Goyal, the ministry also directed health institutions to appoint a nodal officer who will monitor and take action to keep the premises free from Aedes mosquito infection.

Why is Zika virus dangerous?

Zika virus infection is spread by the bite of Aedes mosquito. This mosquito also causes dengue and chikungunya. Although Zika infection does not cause death, it can cause 'microcephaly' in the baby of an infected pregnant woman, in which the size of his head becomes relatively very small. The advisory states that since the fetus of pregnant women infected with Zika virus can have 'microcephaly' and neurological problems, the states have been advised to ask doctors to closely monitor it.

Most cases in Pune

States have been urged to instruct health institutions located in the affected areas or institutions taking care of infected patients to test pregnant women for Zika and act as per the guidelines of the central government by monitoring the development of the fetus of women if the infection is confirmed. Till July 2 this year, six cases of Zika were reported in Pune and one each in Kolhapur and Sangamner. Now three new cases of this infection have been reported in Pune itself.