Officials in Karnataka's Chikkaballapura district have detected the Zika virus in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes following the collection and examination of samples from six waterbodies in the region. An alert has been issued in a five-kilometer radius around the affected area to prevent mosquito breeding. It's important to note that the virus has been identified in mosquito samples, not in humans. No cases have been reported in people thus far.
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasised that the virus was found in mosquito pools and stated, "Don't be afraid of Zika virus." He added that individuals showing symptoms of fever and rashes had been hospitalised and tested, but no positive cases had been confirmed. The health department is closely monitoring the situation, especially concerning pregnant women, as the virus can affect unborn children.
State Health Commissioner D. Randeep clarified that the Zika virus had been identified in mosquitoes, not in humans. Samples from three patients with fever were sent for testing to the National Institute of Virology, and they are reportedly doing fine.
Preventive measures have been put in place, including health awareness campaigns, sanitation initiatives, and mosquito fogging in the affected area. Blood samples from 33 patients, including antenatal cases, have been sent for testing, with results expected in about 10 days.
Officials have formed 53 teams to survey houses within a five-kilometer radius of the affected area, regularly conducting screenings. The revenue department has also been enlisted to assist in efforts to prevent the virus's further spread.
The situation is being closely monitored, and authorities are working to ensure public safety and contain the mosquito-borne virus.
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