Karnataka, the state where Zika was first reported in Karnataka, announced its first Zika case on Monday. Five-year-old Raichur girl was infected by the virus. According to reports, doctors described the virus in detail, including the types of treatments that are available, preventive measures, and dos and donts.
This sudden Zika outbreak is due to the heavy rains that are currently falling in some parts of Karnataka. Health officials are urging people to not panic. Zika is transmitted by mosquito bites, sexual contacts with infected people and blood transfusion. There is no need for panic as long as people are safe, take precautions and follow protocol.
Officials have put forth preventive measures for residents
It is important to prevent mosquito breeding. Here are some tips from health officials.
- Avoid accumulating water in your home or nearby areas.
- Mosquitoes can breed in stagnant water.
- Cover the tanks if you can.
- Make sure that there is no stagnant water in tires or vessels.
- Be cautious, especially if a body of water is nearby. Regularly spray it with disinfectants.
- Use repellents and cover windows with nets to avoid mosquito bites.
- Wear long-sleeved clothes.
- If you develop symptoms such as joint pain, headache or fever, it is best to have routine tests done.
- Avoid self-diagnosis. Consult your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms similar to Zika virus.
