On July 5, a 74-year-old resident of Shivamogga passed away under circumstances suspected to be related to Zika virus infection, although health officials from the Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department believe other underlying health issues may have played a role. The individual had tested positive for Zika virus on June 21 and had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in the city.
District Health Officer Dr. Nataraj clarified, stating, “At this point, we cannot definitively attribute the death to the Zika virus. The patient had pre-existing breathing problems and other age-related health issues. Zika virus infections typically do not result in fatalities. The virus poses serious risks primarily when contracted by pregnant women, as it can harm the fetus.”
The health department is actively monitoring another suspected case of Zika virus infection in the district. Samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) unit in Bengaluru for confirmation of the infection.
Zika virus is transmitted primarily through mosquito bites and has been associated with mild symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Severe outcomes, including neurological complications and congenital abnormalities in infants born to infected mothers, have been reported in some cases.
The investigation into the elderly person’s death underscores the importance of vigilance and prompt medical attention in suspected cases of infectious diseases.
