Rapid response teams in districts

The three international airports in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode and the seaport in Kochi are on high alert for any person affected by the Zika virus. However, there is no need for panic, R. Ramesh, the Director of Health Services, has said.

Guidelines have issued by the Union Health Ministry for all ports regarding passengers coming in from 22 countries. The number of countries could changes according to the spread of the virus worldwide. The backup, if required, will be provided by the State machinery.

The Aluva district hospital and the medical colleges in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode will provide necessary treatment if any case is identified.

Rapid response teams at district levels will follow up suspected cases. Medical officers and field officers had an orientation regarding the issues and all districts have been asked to intensify mosquito-control measures.

Since the vector for the virus, Aedes aegypti mosquito, is found in abundance here, easy spread of the disease is feared.

Pregnant women, women planning pregnancies, and people affected by chronic diseases are high-risk groups for the Zika virus.