Nagpur: After cases of Zika virus confirmed in Maharashtra, Kerala and Uttar Pradesh, Delhi confirmed its first case of the same. The first case of Zika virus was confirmed on Friday at Ram Manohar Lohia hospital.
According to reports, a 61-year-old man from northeast Delhi was admitted to the hospital with fever and muscle pain last week. After screening of the samples of the person’s serum, urine and throat swab, the lab detected Zika virus RNA in it. The sample was then sent to AIIMS and National Institute of Virology in Pune to confirm the same.
Following the development, the National Centre for Disease Control and other health agencies have heightened their surveillance measures in the area where the patient used to live.
What is Zika virus?
The virus spreads by the bite of an infected mosquito species called Aedes. The mosquitos bite during the day as well as at night. The mosquito can also cause illnesses such as dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.
Experts claim that the Zika virus can also be transmitted to a fetus by a pregnant woman and can also cause certain birth defects. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention also suggests that Zika virus can be transmitted to their sex partners.
The Delhi hospital has issued notice to all departments to keep an eye out for people with Zika Virus infection symptoms—like fever, rashes, muscle and joint pain or even conjunctivitis.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of this virus are comparatively mild than those of Covid-19. The common symptoms include fever, rash, red eyes, headache, muscle or joint pain.
The incubation period is said to be between three to 14 days, meanwhile, symptoms can last for around two to seven days. Experts claim that in very rare cases people die due to Zika virus.
Any treatment for Zika Virus?
The US’s CDC says that there is no medicine or vaccine which cures Zika virus yet. However, it is necessary to treat and pay attention to the symptoms.
Experts advise one to take ample rest and hydration during the time period and incase of fever and pain, one can take pain-relieving medicines.
