Suspected zika virus puts officials on toes in Nellore
A suspected Zika virus case in a child from Venkatapuram prompts swift medical action and awareness efforts in Nellore district
Tirupati: A suspected case of Zika virus infection has been detected in a six-year-old boy from Venkatapuram in Marripadu mandal in Nellore district, raising alarm among health officials. Initially, the boy was treated at a private hospital in Nellore, but doctors were unable to determine the exact cause of his illness. He was subsequently transferred to a hospital in Chennai for advanced medical care.
Blood samples from the paediatric patient were collected and sent to a laboratory in Pune for testing. Health officials are awaiting the results of the test report.
In the meantime, the suspected case has prompted health authorities to take swift action. A medical camp has been set up in Venkatapuram, where officials are providing medical guidance and educating villagers on the virus, its symptoms, and preventive measures.
Health Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy assured that the district administration has taken all necessary steps to provide the best medical care to the ailing child. "The child has been shifted to a hospital in Chennai for corporate-level treatment, and his blood samples have been sent to Pune for accurate diagnosis. Special medical teams have been dispatched to the village to examine other family members and residents. There is no need for panic," he said.
The minister further stated that all precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of the virus. "Venkatapuram village has 150 households. Blood samples are being taken from patients suffering from fever, and villagers have been advised not to believe in rumours. Anyone feeling unwell should consult a medical practitioner immediately," he added.
