The Kerala government has taken significant steps to prevent the spread of the Zika virus in the northern Kannur district, where eight cases have been confirmed. State Health Minister Veena George reassured the public that while the Zika virus is typically harmless, it poses a particular risk to pregnant women and can lead to birth defects, such as microcephaly in the fetus.
To mitigate the risk, the Health Department has advised people to be cautious, especially children and the elderly, as the virus is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. The first infection was reported on October 30, prompting swift action. On November 1, a medical camp was organized in the area, during which 24 samples were collected and sent for testing. This early detection allowed authorities to take prompt measures.
The district administration has intensified preventive efforts, including monitoring pregnant women in the region and issuing alerts and guidelines to all health institutions, including private hospitals. In addition to these precautions, fogging, spraying, and larval surveys were carried out to eliminate the Zika virus-carrying mosquitoes. Aedes larvae and mosquitoes were collected and sent to the state’s Department of Entomology for further analysis.
Furthermore, health workers visited 104 houses near the Thalassery District Court, where the infections were initially reported, to ensure that preventive measures were in place and that residents were safe. These combined efforts aim to reduce the risk of Zika virus transmission and protect the health of the community.
