Health Ministry issues advisory to states to curb Zika virus

In view of some reported cases of Zika virus from Maharashtra, Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued an advisory to States highlighting the need for maintaining a state of constant vigil over the Zika virus situation in the country.

As Zika is associated with microcephaly and neurological consequences in the foetus of the affected pregnant lady, States have been advised to alert the clinicians for close monitoring. States are urged to instruct the health facilities in the affected areas or those catering cases from affected areas to screen pregnant women for Zika virus infection, monitor the growth of the fetus of expecting mothers who have tested positive for Zika and act as per Central Government Guidelines. States were also instructed to advise health facilities/hospitals to identify a nodal officer to monitor and act to keep the premises Aedes mosquito-free.

States have been advised to emphasise the importance of strengthening entomological surveillance and intensifying vector control activities in residential areas, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions and health facilities. States are also urged to promote awareness through precautionary IEC messages in social media and other platforms to reduce panic among the community, as Zika is like any other viral infection with most cases being asymptomatic and mild. Though it is reported to be associated with microcephaly, no report of Zika-associated microcephaly has been reported in the country since 2016.

For timely detection and control of any impending upsurge/outbreak, State authorities have been advised to be vigilant, and prepared and ensure the availability of appropriate logistics at all levels. States were also urged to immediately report any detected case to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the National Center for Vector-Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).

Zika testing facilities are available at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune; the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Delhi and a few selected virus research and diagnostic laboratories of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Reviews are being held at a higher level.

DGHS had also issued an advisory earlier this year on April 26, and the Director, NCVBDC issued two advisories in February and April 2024 to forewarn states on Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya transmitted by the same vector mosquito.

The Union Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely.

Edits made by EH News Bureau