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The Pune Municipal Corporation has stepped up surveillance measures after Zika virus infection was detected in two patients from the city’s Erandwane area. Officials have issued an alert within a five-km radius of Erandwane, saying that Zika infection can cause microcephaly in the fetus in pregnant women and earlier on June 20-21, a 46-year-old doctor from Erandwane and his 15-year-old daughter were reported to have Zika virus infection.
For those who don’t know, the Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which is also known to transmit infections like dengue and chikungunya, and most people infected with Zika either remain asymptomatic (up to 80%) or develop mild symptoms of fever, rash, conjunctivitis, body ache, and joint pains, so the emergence of the Zika virus outbreak has raised concerns for pregnant mothers.
‘Take strict precautions’
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mansi Sharma, consultant-obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital in Kharadi, explained, “The virus is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, and has been linked to serious health complications, including congenital abnormalities in unborn babies. Pregnant women should avoid travelling to areas with active Zika virus transmission. If travel to these areas is unavoidable, pregnant women are advised to take strict precautions, such as using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or screened accommodation.”
For women who have travelled to Zika-affected areas, the guidelines recommend testing for the virus regardless of whether they have shown any symptoms or not. “If the test results are positive, healthcare providers may suggest additional monitoring and specialized prenatal care to assess the potential impact on the fetus,” advised Dr Mansi Sharma. In addition, the new guidelines emphasize the importance of delaying pregnancy for women who have been exposed to the Zika virus. The recommended waiting period varies depending on the specific circumstances, but it is generally advisable to wait at least 2-3 months after potential exposure before attempting to conceive.
Zika virus could cause fatal problems for babies
Dr Anuranjita Pallavi, Consultant Gynaecologist and Infertility Specialist at Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, shares her expertise and suggests, “Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should be cautious about the Zika virus. Unfortunately, the virus causes a serious birth defect called microcephaly, where the baby is born with a small head. Zika also causes fatal problems in babies, such as eye problems, hearing loss and seizures. However, there is no vaccine or treatment for Zika. Hence, pregnant women should be careful and avoid mosquito bites, keep water storage containers covered, remove water stagnation in flower pots, keep the house clean and avoid travelling to areas where Zika virus cases have been reported.”
These measures are intended to protect pregnant mothers and their unborn babies from serious health consequences associated with the Zika virus. By following these guidelines, women can take proactive steps to reduce the risk and ensure the well-being of their families during this challenging time.
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