Zika Virus Outbreak In Kerala: What We Know So Far

Zika virus outbreak Kerala: As India still reels from the impact of the massive COVID-19 second wave, the state of Kerala has now officially confirmed its first case of Zika virus - a mosquito-borne viral infection. A 24-year-old pregnant woman has been diagnosed with the mosquito-transmitted disease, Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Thursday.

The symptoms of the Zika virus are fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. They are generally mild and last for two to seven days. 13 more suspected cases of the virus have been reported from Thiruvananthapuram, the minister told PTI. Of the 19 samples sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune, 13 are health workers, including doctors, that are suspected to be positive for the virus infection. The state is on alert for Zika virus now.

Here are ten things to know about the Kerala outbreak:

1. The virus is spread through the Aedes species of mosquitoes, which is found in high density across the state. This type of mosquitoes is also the carrier of dengue, breeds in stagnant freshwater and rests mostly indoors.

2. Zika virus has often been linked to birth defects and the development of Guillain-Barre syndrome, causing a person's immune system to attack their nerves.

3. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some people infected by the disease might not show any signs or symptoms. However, in cases of pregnant women, the infection can seriously harm the developing foetus and lead to congenital anomalies. Read more on what is Zika Virus here.

4. The condition of the first case of this pregnant woman was, however, remains stable. The woman who hails from Tamil Nadu border region, does not have any history of travelling abroad. A week ago, her mother had also shown similar symptoms, as per the Health Minister’s Office statement. The symptoms of Zika are similar to dengue which can cause fever, skin rashes and joint pain. More here.

5. After being diagnosed with the disease, the patient was admitted to a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on June 28. She had the symptoms of fever, headache, and red rashes. She is now reportedly well and has delivered her baby.

6. According to reports, there is no confirmation from NIV Pune on the results of the testing as of yet.

7. The Aedes mosquitoe, which carries the virus, usually bites during early mornings or late evenings.

8. Babies are born with congenital malformations due to the virus are said to suffer from congenital Zika syndrome.

9. Currently, there is no treatment available for the virus infection - no vaccines or cures. However, people with symptoms should follow these steps:

-Treat the symptoms.

-Get plenty of rest.

-Drink fluids to prevent dehydration.

-Treat pain and fever with common medicines.

10. The virus was first isolated in 1947 in Uganda's zika forest. Zika virus had an outbreak in 2015 in Brazil.