5 YEAR OLD GIRL TESTS POSITIVE FOR ZIKA VIRUS

Zika virus is a member of the virus family Flaviviridae. It is spread by daytime-active Aedes mosquitoes, such as A. aegypti and A. albopictus. Its name comes from the Ziika Forest of Uganda, where the virus was first isolated in 1947.

Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar on Monday said a five-year-old girl from Raichur district has become the first confirmed Zika virus case in the state.

The Zika virus is most often spread to a person through the bite of an infected mosquito. The mosquitoes that are known to carry the virus include two aedes species mosquitoes, which can be found throughout the world. It can also be sexually transmitted and during pregnancy it can also spread from the motehr to the foetus.

Signs and symptoms of the Zika virus most commonly include- Mild fever, Rash, Joint pain, particularly in the hands or feet, Red eyes (conjunctivitis). Other syptoms may include, Muscle pain, Headache, Eye pain, Fatigue or a general feeling of discomfort, and Abdominal pain.

There is no specific treatment for Zika virus. To help relieve symptoms, one should get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Over-the-counter medication acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may help relieve joint pain and fever.

Keep the following points in mind to prevent Zika Virus- Plan travel carefully, Practice safe sex, Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened housing, Wear protective clothing, Use insect repellent, Reduce mosquito habitat.