Six new Zika cases in Rajasthan; the toll reaches 123

Most of the reported cases come from the Shastri Nagar region, where fogging activities and other anti-larval activities are underway to prevent the spread of the virus. (Representation photo: Reuters))

Six other people were tested positive for Zika virus in Jaipur district, Rajasthan on Sunday, bringing the total number of cases to 123, said a government official.

Of the 123 patients, about 105 were cured after treatment, he said.

The state health department also formed Saturday a five-member committee to investigate, investigate and track Zika virus disease in first-trimester pregnant patients. The committee will submit the report to the director of public health from time to time, said an order.

Most of the reported cases come from the Shastri Nagar region, where fogging activities and other anti-larval activities are underway to prevent the spread of the virus.

The virus, transmitted by the mosquito aedes aegypti, causes fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pains. It is harmful to pregnant women because it can lead to microcephaly, a condition in which the baby's head is significantly smaller in the newborn.

In India, the first outbreak was reported in Ahmedabad in January 2017 and the second in Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, in July of that year. Both epidemics were controlled through intensive surveillance and vector management.

The disease is under the supervision of the Ministry of Health of the Union, although it is no longer a public health emergency of international concern upon notification of the WHO since November 18, 2016.