New Delhi: On Wednesday, July 3, the Central government issued an advisory to all states due to increasing Zika virus cases in Maharashtra. The advisory urges states to stay vigilant, focusing on screening pregnant women and monitoring fetal growth in those who test positive for the virus. The advisory highlights the importance of screening expecting mothers, tracking fetal development, and maintaining strict mosquito control measures. With eight reported cases so far in 2024, the Health Ministry underscores the potential risks to newborn health. Hospitals and health facilities are instructed to appoint a nodal officer to ensure the premises remain free from Aedes mosquitoes. Zika, a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, is similar to dengue and chikungunya. While not typically fatal, Zika is linked to microcephaly, a condition where babies are born with smaller-than-normal heads, posing serious health concerns. So far in 2024, Pune has reported six cases, with additional cases in Kolhapur and Sangamner. Dengue Enters with the Rain: Know Its Symptoms and Prevention Measures Get Rid of Migraines: It's Time to Know the Benefits of Magnesium Say Goodbye to Insomnia: Embrace the Power of Tart Cherry Juice