Lucknow: An alert on Zika virus has been issued in UP, especially airports in the state, after growing number of Zika cases are reported in Rajasthan.
Dr. Mithilesh Chaturvedi, Communicable diseases Director (UP), reacting to the rise in Zika case, said there was a need to keep a strict watch on people suffering from fever, HT reports.
“Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that transmits dengue virus, also spreads Zika virus. The mosquito is widely prevalent here,” he says.
The Director has alerted the Airport Authority of India (AAI) to take preventive measures at Lucknow airport and other airports in the state to prevent the rise of Zika virus.
Health authorities in Lucknow have also issued an advisory for Zika virus for the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) and the chief medical officer (CMO).
No cases of Zika virus has been reported in the city so far according to health directorate officials.
“Many people infected with Zika virus remain asymptomatic. Around 80 percent of patients show mild symptoms of body ache, conjunctivitis, fever, rashes and joint pains. Any patient having fever, especially coming from infected areas of Rajasthan, must be monitored carefully,” Dr Chaturvedi said.
He also added the AAI should ensure proper examination of passengers complaining of fever, maculopapular rash or any other associated symptom.
“Any passenger returning from Rajasthan should be examined carefully before being allowed to enter the city.”
An official at Lucknow airport, who chose to stay anonymous said: “The Lucknow airport is on high alert when it comes to Zika virus. The team of doctors at the airport is on alert.”
An officer on special duty at Lucknow airport, Sanjay Narain stated the AAI would follow the guidelines issued by the health department and district administration.
Meanwhile Municipal commissioner, Lucknow, Indramani Tripathi said, “The guidelines regarding Zika virus will be fully implemented. We will carry out anti-mosquito drives in the city with the help of district malaria officer.”