Tips to protect yourself from Zika virus infection
Bengaluru reported six cases of Zika virus This month, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said the virus was detected in two men and four women, including two pregnant women. Speaking to DH, he said: “However, infections during pregnancy can lead to microcephaly.” Microcephaly and other birth defects in babies due to Zika infection are rare, he noted.
According to a report in The Hindu, D. Randeep, State Health Commissioner, said, “While the patients do not belong to the same family, the cases have been detected in the vicinity of Jigani and the source must be the same for all of them. Among the six affected, two women were pregnant while one recently gave birth. We have conducted antenatal care tests on the two pregnant women and they are doing well. The other two men are also in normal condition.”
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said there was no need to panic. “Those affected by Zika virus will have the usual symptoms. Like in the case of dengue, we should give paracetamol and painkillers to those affected.”
Zika virus, also known as Zika fever, is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito of the Aedes genus, primarily Aedes aegypti. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products, and organ transplantation.
Tips to protect yourself from the Zika virus
Use insect repellent
Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. These repellents help keep mosquitoes that carry the Zika virus away.
Wear protective clothing
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, especially when outdoors. Light-colored clothing is preferable, as it makes it easier to spot mosquitoes. By covering as much of your skin as possible, you reduce the chances of mosquito bites that can cause infection.
Stay indoors during peak mosquito activity
Mosquitoes that transmit Zika virus are most active during the early morning and late evening hours. Staying indoors during these peak hours can help reduce the risk of bites.
Use mosquito nets
Sleep under mosquito nets, especially in areas where the Zika virus is common. Mosquito nets act as a physical barrier against mosquitoes and protect you while you sleep. They are important for pregnant women, who are at higher risk for serious complications.
Installation of mosquito nets on doors and windows
Make sure your windows and doors have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Repair any holes or gaps in your screens to prevent them from entering.
How to get rid of stagnant water
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so containers such as buckets, flower pots and birdbaths should be emptied, cleaned or covered periodically.
Use the air conditioning
If possible, use air conditioning instead of opening windows, as this helps keep mosquitoes away and reduces the humidity that attracts them. Cooler indoor temperatures reduce mosquito activity.
Practice safe sex
The Zika virus can be transmitted through sexual contact, so it is recommended that you use condoms or abstain from sex if you or your partner have been exposed to the virus. This helps prevent sexual transmission, which is important for couples planning to become pregnant.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this post is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.
We respect the intellectual property rights of content creators. If you are the owner of any material featured on our website and have concerns about its use, please contact us. We are committed to addressing any copyright issues promptly and will remove any material within 2 days of receiving a request from the rightful owner.