Screening

On Wednesday, the Centre ordered states to maintain vigilance due to Zika virus spread in Maharashtra, with eight cases reported by July 2: six in Pune, one each in Kolhapur and Sangamner. Spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, Zika usually causes mild symptoms but poses risks for pregnant women, potentially causing microcephaly in the fetus. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, issued an advisory for constant monitoring. The Health Ministry urged screening pregnant women and tracking fetal growth as per guidelines, given the infection’s neurological consequences. Affected areas must prioritize vigilance, screening, and monitoring efforts. The Centre on Wednesday asked states to maintain a state of constant vigil over the Zika virus situation in the country amid reports of the spread of the mosquito-borne infection in various districts of Maharashtra. As of July 2, Maharashtra has reported eight cases of Zika virus infection: six from Pune and one each from Kolhapur and Sangamner. Zika virus is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, similar to dengue and chikungunya. It spreads when a mosquito carrying the virus infects a person. Experts say the infection doesn’t cause severe symptoms in most cases and subsides in a few days. However, in the case of pregnant women, the infection is known to affect the fetus and cause microcephaly (reduced head size), making it a major concern. According to the health ministry, Director General of Health Services Atul Goel has issued an advisory to states highlighting the need for maintaining constant vigilance. As Zika is associated with microcephaly and neurological consequences in the fetus of the affected pregnant woman, the health ministry said on Wednesday, states have been advised to alert clinicians for close monitoring. “States are urged to instruct the health facilities to screen pregnant women, monitor the growth of the fetus of expecting mothers who have tested positive for Zika and act as per central guidelines,” it said.