Docs told to inform Health Dept about Zika virus signs

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, November 28

The Health Department held a meeting and discussed about issuing guidelines regarding the Zika virus to the private healthcare sector, paediatricians and gynaecologists here on Wednesday.

The department had already issued guidelines earlier and this will be the second time that these directions will be issued.

City-based private hospitals, gynaecologists and paediatricians have been asked to inform the department in case they find any suspected case or any sign of the Zika virus in expectant mothers or babies.

“They have been asked to inform the department if they suspect or observe any sign of virus in expectant mothers or babies. We have asked gynaecologists and paediatricians to immediately inform the Health Department if they observe any birth defect in any child,” said Dr Ramesh, District Epidemologist.

Dr Ramesh said the Zika virus is transmitted by the same mosquitoe that is responsible for the spread of dengue and chikungunya.