Zika Virus: No Zika fear in Vidarbha, medical experts assure residents

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Nagpur: Amid rising concerns over Zika virus cases in western Maharashtra, medical professionals in Nagpur assured residents that there is no immediate threat. Experts from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Nagpur, and infectious disease specialists provided clarity on the situation and government advisories, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures for expectant mothers.Infectious disease specialist Dr Nitin Shinde said that Zika virus is primarily a travel-related disease with limited cases. He advises pregnant women to remain vigilant about any viral infections, noting that prompt medical consultation is crucial. “In the past three years, many samples were sent for Zika testing from Nagpur, but none tested positive,” he said.Dr Nivrutti Pawar, district civil surgeon for Nagpur, reassured that while the central govt has issued advisories following cases in other parts of Maharashtra, there is no need for panic in Nagpur and Vidarbha . “We have alerted all hospitals and healthcare facilities to report any suspected Zika cases,” he added.Epidemiologist Anand Thatte offered an intriguing perspective, suggesting that the prevalence of the dengue virus in Vidarbha might inhibit the spread of Zika. “Although it’s not official, I believe the dengue virus is overpowering Zika in this region since the same mosquito species spreads both viruses,” he explained.IMA Nagpur president Dr Manjusha Giri said that the medical community is vigilant, particularly in monitoring viral infections in pregnant women. “Doctors are already on high alert due to cases found in Pune,” she said, emphasizing the seriousness with which viral infections in pregnant women are taken.Free diagnostic facilities for Zika are available at the National Institute of Disease Diagnosis in New Delhi, the National Institute of Virology in Pune, and VRDL Laboratories at Nagpur, Miraj, Solapur, Akola, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. According to the health department, there is no specific medicine or vaccine for Zika, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms.Aedes mosquitoes primarily spread Zika virus. Symptoms include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache, typically lasting 2-7 days. Pregnant women are particularly at risk as Zika can cause congenital malformations like microcephaly. Preventive measures include using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and ensuring living areas are mosquito-free. Pregnant women should avoid travel to areas with Zika outbreaks and seek medical advice if experiencing symptoms.