Now Zika Virus Poses Threat In Kerala, Multiple Cases Detected Amid Covid Second Wave

Zika virus is spread through mosquito bites and in extreme cases, it can trigger paralysis. In pregnant women, it may cause subsequent birth defects.

FILE | An employee examines tube with the label 'Zika virus' at Genekam Biotechnology AG in Duisburg

Thiruvananthapuram: Amid the ongoing Coronavirus crisis in the state, Kerala has now reported at least 13 cases of the mosquito-borne Zika virus. Of the 13 samples which were sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for testing, all of them are said to be positive, news agency PTI quoted Kerala Health Minister Veena George as saying.

Zika virus is spread through mosquito bites and in extreme cases can trigger paralysis. In pregnant women, Zika virus may cause subsequent birth defects.

The symptoms of the Zika virus include mild fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes. Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for the disease. Instead, the focus is on relieving symptoms and includes rest, rehydration, and acetaminophen for fever and pain.

A 24-year-old pregnant woman from Parassala, who is undergoing treatment in a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, was diagnosed with the disease. Accoring to Mathrubhumi.com, the woman is said to be in stable condition and she even gave birth on June 7.

On the contrary to the News18 report, Mathrubhumi.com said that 13 out of the 19 samples sent from the Thiruvananthapuram district have returned positive. 

Soon after the reports of the Zika virus came to light, the Kerala government has started taking the required measures to prevent the spread of the disease and has asked all districts to be on alert.

Symptoms of the Zika virus are similar to Chikungunya and Aedes mosquitos which bite during the daytime cause the disease. The disease can be completely cured if the patient takes proper rest. 

Zika virus can also be transmitted through blood transfusion or sexual activities.

Currently, Kerala is reeling under a severe second wave of Coronavirus with the state reporting as many as 13,772 new cases in the last 24 hours, pushing the infection caseload to 30.25 lakh. 

The rapid rise in daily cases of Coronavirus has alerted state administration to prepare for a possible third wave.