14 Zika virus cases confirmed in Kerala

The symptoms are similar to dengue and they include fever, rashes and joint pain

Thirteen more Zika virus cases have been confirmed in Kerala taking the total infected so far to 14.

Health Minster Veena George said that an action plan was prepared to prevent the spread of the virus, especially through mosquito eradication. Since the virus was likely to affect women in early months of pregnancy, all women who are up to five months pregnant were advised to undergo tests in case of fever or other symptoms.

The symptoms of Zika are similar to dengue and they include fever, rashes and joint pain.

Also read: Explained: What is driving the spike in Kerala's Covid-19 cases?

All the 13 fresh cases were reported in health workers of a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. Hence, special drives were being carried out at the places of their work and stay.

A 24-year-old woman in Thiurvananthapuram was initially found infected with Zika virus. It was the first Zika virus case reported in the state. She gave birth on Wednesday and did not have any medical issues after.

Though no medicines for Zika infection are available, the fatality due to the infection was very rare, said the minister.

Meanwhile, Covid cases in Kerala also continued to be high with 13,563 fresh cases being reported on Friday. The test positivity rate was also remaining high at 10.4 per cent.