Zika Virus cluster identified in Dhaka, five infected – First case ever in Bangladesh

A cluster of Zika virus cases has been reported in Dhaka, marking the first such occurrence in Bangladesh. 

According to the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B), five individuals in the capital have tested positive for the virus. 

The details of this discovery were shared by ICDDR,B on Monday via their verified Facebook page and official website.

The news comes after a thorough review of samples collected in 2023. Scientists used whole genome sequencing and comparative analysis to confirm that the Zika strain found in Bangladesh belongs to the Asian lineage. 

This strain, which was previously detected in Cambodia and China back in 2019, could lead to serious complications, including microcephaly and other neurological disorders, if an individual becomes infected.

ICDDR,B has also pointed out that Bangladesh’s tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and a long monsoon season, creates favorable conditions for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes. 

This has been a significant factor in the spread of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya in the country. 

Now, with the detection of Zika, the threat of another mosquito-borne virus looms.

Zika virus was first discovered in monkeys in Uganda in 1947. It was later identified in humans in 1952 and has since spread to various countries around the world. 

Like dengue and chikungunya, Zika is transmitted through the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. 

While the symptoms of Zika resemble those of dengue, the virus often goes unnoticed in about 80% of the cases. 

Once infected, the virus can remain in the body for years.

What’s particularly concerning is that Zika can also be transmitted through sexual contact. 

Furthermore, if a pregnant woman contracts the virus, it can lead to serious birth defects in the child, including physical deformities.

As Bangladesh grapples with this new health concern, authorities and experts are urging the public to remain vigilant and take precautions against mosquito bites, particularly as the monsoon season continues to provide optimal breeding conditions for these harmful mosquitoes.