Six cases were reported in Bengaluru Zika Virus Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said two men and four women, including two pregnant women, were tested positive for the virus this month. Speaking to DH, he said, “However, infection during pregnancy can cause microcephaly.” He said microcephaly and other congenital malformations in babies due to Zika infection are rare.

According to a report in The Hindu, State Health Commissioner D. Randeep said, “Though the patients are not from the same family, the cases in Jigani have been found in very close proximity and the source must be the same for all of them. Of the six affected, two women were pregnant, while one recently gave birth. We have conducted antenatal care tests on both the pregnant women, and they are fine. The other two men are also in normal condition.”

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said there was no need to panic. “People affected by Zika will have common symptoms. Just like we treat dengue, we should give paracetamol and painkillers to the affected people.”

Zika virus, also known as Zika fever, is usually transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito of the Aedes species, primarily Aedes aegypti. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to fetus through sexual contact, transfusion of blood and blood products, and organ transplantation during pregnancy.

Tips to protect yourself from Zika virus

Use insect repellent

Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin. These repellents help ward off mosquitoes that spread the Zika virus

Wear protective clothing

Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, especially when you’re outdoors. It’s better to wear light-colored clothes because they make it easier for mosquitoes to spot. When you cover most of your skin, you reduce the chance of mosquito bites that can lead to infection.

Stay indoors during peak mosquito activity

Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus are most active in the early morning and afternoon. Staying indoors during these peak times can reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Use mosquito net

Sleep under a mosquito net, especially in areas where Zika is widespread. Nets act as a physical barrier against mosquitoes, protecting you while you sleep. They are important for pregnant women who are at higher risk of serious complications.

install window and door screens

Make sure windows and doors have mesh to keep mosquitoes out of the house. Repair any holes or gaps in the mesh to prevent mosquitoes from getting in.

Get rid of standing water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty, clean or cover containers such as buckets, vases and birdbaths.

Use air conditioning

If possible, use air conditioning rather than opening windows as this helps keep mosquitoes out and reduces the humidity that attracts them. Cooler temperatures indoors reduce mosquito activity.

Practice safe sex

Zika can be spread through sexual contact, so use condoms or abstain from sex if you or your partner has been exposed to the virus. This helps prevent sexual transmission which is important for couples planning a pregnancy.

Get the latest news on Times Now along with the latest updates and top headlines from health and around the world.