Thiruvananthapuram: Two more tested positive for Zika virus in Kerala on Tuesday, taking the total number of infections in the state to 21. The fresh cases were reported among Poonthura and Sasthamangalam residents. The infection was confirmed at the virology lab of the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College and the Coimbatore-based laboratory.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George directed the District Medical Officer to visit the affected areas and intensify preventive measures. Zika is transmitted mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito and the only way to prevent the spread of the disease is to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
The health department also suggested that pregnant women should be protected from mosquito bites. Zika virus can also be transmitted through sexual contact. Strong preventive measures will be taken focusing on areas and hospitals where the disease is likely to be reported. An alert has been issued across the state.
On Monday, a 73-year-old woman was detected with the virus taking the tally to 19 from the early cases of 18.
Read: 'Mathrukavacham': Kerala to start campaign for vaccinating pregnant women against Covid
