Zika virus in Karnataka: First case confirmed in 5-year-old girl; check symptoms, prevention and vaccine

Zika Virus: Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar has confirmed that a five-year-old girl from Raichur district has become the first confirmed Zika virus case in the state. The Minister also made it clear that there is no need for any worry or concern as the government is taking all the necessary measures and will also be issuing a set of guidelines.

No other fresh cases of Zika virus have been found so far in the state and there is no need for any worry, the Minister said, adding that the government is monitoring the situation with caution.

While speaking to reporters, Minister pointed out that a few months ago Zika virus cases were found in Kerala, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.

Zika Virus Transmissible?

Zika virus disease is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. This is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. The virus was first identified in Uganda in 1947.

Zika Virus Symptoms

The incubation period of Zika virus is estimated to be 3 to 14 days. The majority of people infected with Zika virus do not develop any symptoms.

Major symptoms are mild including fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache, and usually last for 2–7 days.

 Zika Fever: How to protect yourself from Zika virus

Keep yourself protected against mosquito bites during the day and early evening is a key measure to prevent Zika virus infection.  

 
Zika virus vaccine

There is no vaccine available for the prevention or treatment of Zika virus infection.