Brain-Affecting Virus in Kerala: 15 Cases, 5 Deaths in 8 Months; 7 New Zika Cases in Pune
A new brain-affecting virus has been identified in Kerala, which the state government has named Amoebic Meningoencephalitis.
Health Minister Veena George stated late on August 7 that there have been a total of 15 cases of the virus from January to date, resulting in 5 deaths.
Zika Virus Cases in Pune
On the other hand, Pune has reported seven new cases of the Zika virus in the past two months, including six pregnant women.
Formation of Medical Board for New Virus in Kerala
The first case of Amoebic Meningoencephalitis in Kerala was reported in 2016. Subsequent cases were recorded in 2019, 2020, and 2022, all of which resulted in deaths. The disease presents symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, and mental shocks.
Health Minister Veena George announced the formation of a medical board to monitor the new virus cases. Although guidelines have not yet been established, the central government has supplied medications, and drugs are being procured from Germany. The highest number of cases have been reported in Thiruvananthapuram.
What is Amoebic Meningoencephalitis?
The virus, also known as Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), is caused by pre-living amoebas found in dirty water. It enters the body through the nasal mucosa. According to the Centers for Disease Control, this virus is also known as the “brain-eating amoeba.”
New Zika Virus Cases in Pune
On Wednesday, Pune in Maharashtra reported eight new cases of the Zika virus, including six pregnant women. According to the Pune Municipal Corporation, around 81 cases have been reported since June. An official noted that four patients have died due to the virus, although they also suffered from other diseases.
What is Zika Virus?
The Zika virus is spread by Aedes mosquitoes. The virus uses our cells to replicate itself many times. The problem with this disease is that most infected individuals are unaware they have the Zika virus.
In fact, Zika virus symptoms are very mild, but it can severely affect pregnant women. The virus can prevent the fetus’s brain from developing properly.
Symptoms of Zika Virus
Most people infected with Zika virus do not show symptoms. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only 1 in 5 people infected with Zika virus will display symptoms. These symptoms are so common that it becomes difficult to determine if they are due to Zika virus.
Increased Risk for Pregnant Women
The Zika virus typically affects pregnant women. It can also infect the fetus and hinder its development. The virus can reach the fetus through the placenta.
Possible Birth Defects from Zika Virus
Zika virus can cause congenital conditions such as:
- Congenital Zika Syndrome: Includes severe microcephaly, a small head, lack of neurons in the brain, weak eyes, joint problems, and hypertension.
- Incomplete Brain Development: May cause neural tube defects, absence of brain folds, missing brain structures, and brain atrophy.
- Cerebral Palsy: Impairs coordination between the brain and other organs, affecting muscle control. Cerebral palsy issues can reduce these abilities.
- Other Issues: Visual or hearing problems, and low birth weight at birth.
