Dr. Atul Goel, the Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has issued an important advisory to all states in India following reports of Zika virus cases in Maharashtra. The advisory highlights the need for constant vigilance and preparedness to manage the Zika virus situation across the country.
Zika virus is particularly concerning for pregnant women, as it can cause microcephaly (a condition where babies are born with a smaller head) and other neurological issues in the fetus. Because of this, states are being asked to make sure doctors closely monitor pregnant women for signs of Zika infection.
Actions for Health Facilities
States have been instructed to:
1. Screen pregnant women for Zika virus, especially those from affected areas.
2. Monitor the growth of fetuses in pregnant women who test positive for Zika.
3. Follow the guidelines provided by the Central Government for managing Zika cases.
Health facilities are also advised to appoint a nodal officer responsible for ensuring that the premises are free from Aedes mosquitoes, which spread Zika.
Surveillance and Vector Control
States are being urged to:
1. Strengthen entomological surveillance (study of insects) to track and control mosquito populations.
2. Intensify mosquito control activities in homes, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions, and health facilities.
Public Awareness
To prevent panic and misinformation, states should promote awareness about Zika virus through social media and other platforms. It is important to inform the public that Zika is generally a mild viral infection and most cases are asymptomatic (showing no symptoms). Although Zika can be associated with microcephaly, there have been no such cases reported in India since 2016.
Preparedness and Reporting
States need to be vigilant and prepared to detect and control any outbreaks. They should ensure the availability of necessary supplies and logistics at all levels. Any detected cases should be reported immediately to the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).
Zika Testing Facilities
Zika testing is available at:
– National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune
– National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi
– Selected virus research and diagnostic laboratories of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Past Advisories
Earlier this year, the DGHS issued an advisory on April 26th, and the Director of NCVBDC issued advisories in February and April, 2024, warning states about Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya, all transmitted by the same Aedes mosquito.
Ongoing Monitoring
The Union Health Ministry continues to closely monitor the situation.
Zika is spread by the Aedes mosquito, similar to Dengue and Chikungunya. Although it is not fatal, it poses significant risks to pregnant women and their unborn children. India’s first case of Zika was reported in Gujarat in 2016. Since then, cases have been reported in several other states, including Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Karnataka.
In 2024, up until July 2nd, Maharashtra has reported eight Zika cases: six in Pune, one in Kolhapur, and one in Sangamner.
By staying informed and vigilant, and by taking the necessary precautions, we can manage and control the spread of Zika virus effectively.