Zika virus outbreak in India: What are the symptoms and preventive measures?

Monsoon is here and so are mosquitoes. During monsoon, mosquito infestation is high and one must save themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes. Because of the accumulation of water, many houses are at risk of harbouring excessive mosquito infestation.

Recently, four cases of Zika virus have been reported in India. Lately, a 22-year-old man tested positive for the virus in Pune. As cases rise, let us look at how the Zika virus spreads, what are the symptoms and what are some preventive measures.

Symptoms of Zika virus infection

Zika virus is spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito which is also known for spreading diseases like dengue and chikungunya. The virus was first identified in Uganda in 1947.

Symptoms of Zika virus infection are usually mild and may appear within 2-7 days of infection.

Main symptoms are:

Fever,

The infected person may have mild to moderate fever.

Rash

There may be red rashes on the body after you have transmitted the virus.

Joint pain

The joints of your hand and legs get affected by zika virus. This is one of the main symptoms.

Muscle pain

Another noticeable symptom is muscle pain, which may occur in different parts of the body.

Some other symptoms are eye irritation and headache.

Preventive measures

Protect yourself from mosquitoes

Use mosquito nets, mosquito repellent creams and sprays to keep away mosquitoes. Make sure to not allow water to accumulate around the house.

Wear full-sleeved clothes

Wear full-sleeved clothes to protect your skin from mosquito bites.

Avoid Zika-affected places

You should avoid travelling to Zika-affected areas. Pregnant women should especially be careful.

Destroy mosquito breeding grounds

Do not allow water to stagnate around and inside the house where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Buy nets for windows and doors

To prevent mosquitoes from entering the house, put nets on windows and doors.

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