2023-07-21 06:49:00
Title: Doctor Warns Pregnant Women about Zika Virus Spread by Mosquitoes
Subtitle: Ministry of Public Health Expects Increase in Dengue Fever Cases
Date: June 15, 2022
In a recent Facebook post, Dr. Phakphum Dethusdin, a renowned medical technologist and owner of the Facebook page “Doctor Lab Panda,” issued a warning to pregnant women regarding the dangers of mosquito bites. Not only do they need to be cautious of dengue fever, but they should also be aware of the Zika virus, which can be transmitted by mosquitoes. Dr. Dethusdin emphasized that it’s not just Aedes mosquitoes that carry the Zika virus; transmission can also occur through blood transfusions or from mother to unborn child.
As the World Health Organization marks June 15 as “ASEAN Dengue Day,” the Ministry of Public Health has urged the public to accelerate efforts in eliminating mosquito larvae to prevent the spread of three diseases. With the beginning of the year seeing over half a thousand dengue fever cases and four deaths, the ministry predicts an increase in the number of cases.
The symptoms of dengue fever are generally not severe, with most affected individuals experiencing fever, red rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and headaches lasting for 2-7 days. However, if a pregnant woman is bitten by an infected mosquito, it may lead to severe complications for the unborn child, such as microcephaly (small head), epilepsy, or congenital cerebral palsy.
Dr. Dethusdin emphasized that preventing mosquito bites is crucial. He advised using anti-mosquito ointments, sleeping under mosquito nets, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Moreover, individuals are urged to get familiar with the Zika virus, its transmission, and the dangers it poses to unborn children.
The Zika virus is a flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, just like the Dengue virus. When bitten by a mosquito carrying the Zika virus, individuals can become infected. In the case of pregnant women, if infected with the Zika virus, it can lead to brain abnormalities or birth defects such as microcephaly, hindering the baby’s brain development and potentially causing long-term disabilities.
The virus can be transmitted through mosquito bites, sexual contact, or from an infected mother to her fetus. It can also be transmitted through blood transfusions if the donor is infected. Dr. Dethusdin cautioned that even a small amount of cyanide poisoning can be fatal.
Prevention is key. Individuals should avoid traveling to areas where the virus is prevalent and use condoms or abstain from sex if their partners have recently been to high-risk areas. Since most Zika virus infections are asymptomatic, it is important to be aware of the common symptoms such as a red rash, fever, eye pain, muscle and joint pain, headache, and vomiting, which can be similar to dengue fever symptoms.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms or belonging to a high-risk group should promptly seek medical attention for a thorough diagnosis. Pregnant women, both symptomatic and asymptomatic, should consult their doctors for regular check-ups to protect their unborn babies and mitigate the risk of complications.
In conclusion, pregnant women need to be aware of the dangers posed by mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and the Zika virus. By taking necessary precautions and seeking medical advice, they can ensure the safety and well-being of both themselves and their babies.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the content provided by Dr. Phakphum Dethusdin’s Facebook page, “Doctor Lab Panda,” and Paolo Hospital. The information is for educational purposes only and should not substitute professional medical advice.]
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