STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: Following the spread of the zika virus in some states like UP, Kerala etc., the Health Department is monitoring the situation in Assam.
Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that spreads through the bite of an infected Aedes species of mosquito that bites during the day.
Though there is no detection of any case in the state, the Health Department is keeping a close watch on the situation as there is no specific medicine, nor is there any vaccine to keep the virus at bay.
Talking to The Sentinel, NHM (National Health Mission) Managing Director N Laxman said, "So far, no zika virus case has occurred in the state. The situation is not rife for red alert. However, we are monitoring the situation."
A senior doctor said, "Zika virus spreads from animals and insects, mainly mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite in the morning and early afternoon. Sometimes, they show symptoms, and sometimes they do not. Symptoms are mild fever, rashes in the skin, muscle pain, headache etc., that last for two to seven days.
"Some people consume aspirin and Paracetamol to get rid of such infection. People should avoid self-medication."
A senior doctor from the GMCH (Gauhati Medical College and Hospital) said, "Test of body fluids (blood, urine etc.,) is a must soon after the detection of symptoms. The patients need to avoid self-medication. They should rush to doctors after the detection of the symptoms."
Sources in the Health Department said that prevention from a mosquito bite is the only cure as there is no medicine or vaccine to keep the virus at bay. Stagnant water near houses, schools, gardens etc., needs elimination to check the breeding of mosquitoes. In some cases, patients may suffer paralysis. Pregnant women may face birth problems if infected.
Department sources further said that there is nothing to worry about as no case has occurred in the state. The department has advised the masses to avoid travelling to any place where the virus has occurred.
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