A 74-year-old resident of Shivamogga, who was found infected with Zika virus earlier, died on Friday. However, officials of the Health and Family Welfare Department say the death could be owing to “other factors”, as he was under treatment for urinary infection and breathing problem as well.
The resident of Gandhi Nagar in Shivamogga was admitted to a private hospital in the city on June 18. Samples collected from him tested positive for Zika virus three days later, on June 21.
He underwent treatment and returned home after recovery. However, he breathed his last on Friday. He had travelled to Davangere and Mysuru a few days before he fell ill.
District Health Officer Dr. Nataraj told The Hindu that he tested positive for Zika virus. However, the infection would not cause death. “He had other age-related health issues and had been admitted to the hospital for a urinary infection last month,” he said.
The DHO said if pregnant women get infection it could be serious.
“The infection can affect the growth of foetus. However in other cases, it is not serious. It does not cause death,” he maintained.
Besides, one more suspected case of Zika had been reported in the district. The DHO said samples had been sent to the NIV unit in Bengaluru. “The infection is yet to be confirmed,” he added.
Published - July 06, 2024 12:49 pm IST
