Zika virus action plan: The country's comprehensive efforts to combat the outbreaks

Content Editor: Dr. Sumana

August 8, 2024 at 2:00:00 PM

Viral disease, Vector-borne disease, Outbreak

The Government of India has unveiled an ‘Action Plan for Managing Zika Virus Disease,’ outlining comprehensive public health strategies for combating outbreaks.
The plan includes technical guidelines for vector management and community engagement.
Under the National Health Mission, funds are allocated to states for preventive measures like breeding checkers, fogging, and training.
Under the action plan, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) will monitor and respond to Zika outbreaks and the other 33 outbreak-prone diseases.
Each state will have designated labs, such as DPHLs and SRLs, for disease investigation and surveillance.
From 2017 to July 2024, India reported 537 Zika cases.
The recent updates show 13 cases in 2024, with the state-wise distribution as follows:

From 2017 to 2024, the key states with the highest burden include Madhya Pradesh (260), Kerala (97), and Uttar Pradesh (150).
Additionally, the Ministry supports state health infrastructure and provides technical assistance and integration with various schemes.

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