Pregnant women need not panic about Zika virus infection; experts urge preventive measures

Hyderabad: Two pregnant women have been diagnosed with Zika virus infection among the eight Zika positive cases in Pune so far. The Union health ministry has also issued an advisory to the State governments to maintain vigil and implement specific measures.

The advisory has directed the State governments to screen pregnant women and monitor the growth of foetus among other containment and surveillance measures.

Pregnant women need not panic

With two pregnant women testing positive for the Zika virus infections, questions are raised about their health and the growth of the foetus.

Dr Srilatha Gorthi, gynaecologist and infertility specialist advised pregnant women not to panic. “The infection is rarely transmitted to the foetus which has been reported earlier as well. The possibility of transmission is around 1 per cent and hence there is no need to panic,” she said.

The fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise and headache may settle down within a period of one week.

Dr K Anuradha, senior gynaecologist and IVF specialist sys "It is important that pregnant women don't panic as it can lead to other complications, for them to stay safe and follow the doctors advice of care is recommended. Often people read advisories on social media and panic. There are proper medical advisories in place and families must connect to their treating doctor for clarifications."

Child may develop abnormality

While the transmission rate is only 1 percent, those cases of reported transmission show that the possibilities of abnormality in the child are very high.

“The virus may affect the brain of the child terribly. Microcephaly can result in smaller brain sizes. The child can become mentally retarded and have growth restrictions. With no vaccinations so far, it is better to prevent the infection than look for a cure,” Dr Srilatha said.

Stay aware of Rubella and Cytomegalovirus

The prevalence of dengue and malaria are cited as more dangerous than Zika virus. All three infections are caused by the Aedes species mosquitoes, the population of which increases during the monsoon seasons in India.

Dr Srilatha said, “Besides, pregnant women should be screened for rubella and cytomegalovirus. Rather than Zika virus, people should be more worried about dengue and malaria.”

Ensure preventive measures

The experts have advised maintaining a clean environment around the houses and colonies to prevent vector-borne diseases.

“Use all measures to prevent yourself from mosquito bites. People should use body lotion and mosquito liquids, mosquito bats and ensure they maintain their surroundings clean,” Dr Srilatha said.