Nellore, December 19, 2024: A suspected case of Zika virus has caused widespread fear among the residents of Venkatapurram village in Marripadu Mandal, Nellore district. The symptoms of the virus were observed in an eight-year-old boy, sparking significant anxiety among locals, who have been on edge for the past two days. The child, displaying symptoms consistent with the Zika virus, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Chennai. However, the report from the Pune Institute of Virology has not yet been received, leaving the situation uncertain.
The villagers are also raising concerns over the poor sanitation in the area, which has led to an increase in mosquito populations. Local authorities have faced criticism for their handling of the situation, with residents accusing them of not taking adequate action despite the urgency of the issue. There are also reports that medical officers have been untraceable, contributing to the growing unease in the village.
Furthermore, the fear of the virus has led to the closure of the local government school, as teachers have been unwilling to visit the village. The family of the affected child has pleaded for the government’s intervention, urging authorities to provide the necessary support for their son’s treatment. The community remains hopeful that immediate measures will be taken to address the health crisis.
