NN Online:
Two suspected cases of the Zika virus have been detected in Chattogram for the first time, health officials confirmed on Tuesday following preliminary test results.
The patients—a 42-year-old man and woman—underwent blood tests at a private diagnostic lab, which indicated possible Zika infection. Dr. Mohammad Towhidul Anwar, Deputy Civil Surgeon of Chattogram, said the male patient exhibited symptoms including fever, body aches, and skin rashes, while the female patient had fever, joint pain, and swelling.
The initial tests were conducted using a multi-virus diagnostic kit. “Since the kit detects several viruses, confirmatory tests are essential,” Dr. Anwar noted.
The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has been notified, and further measures will be taken based on its recommendations and final test results.
Dr. Jahangir Alam, Civil Surgeon of Chattogram, said the cases were identified at Epic Healthcare, a private lab. “We have already gathered full patient details and are starting treatment and precautionary steps from today,” he added.
Zika virus was first reported in Bangladesh in 2014, but this is the first suspected detection in Chattogram. Health authorities remain on alert as they await confirmation.
