Two individuals in Chattogram have tested positive for the Zika virus, according to test results from a private diagnostic center, Epic Healthcare Lab. The cases, confirmed on Monday (7 July), involve a 42-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman.

The male patient reportedly exhibited symptoms including fever, body aches, and a reddish rash on his skin. The female patient showed signs of fever, swelling, and pain in her limbs.

Confirming the development, Dr. Mohammad Touhidul Anwar, Deputy Civil Surgeon of Chattogram, stated that the positive results were identified using a combined diagnostic kit that screens for multiple viruses. As a result, further confirmatory testing is necessary to validate the Zika diagnosis.

“We’ve informed the relevant authorities in Dhaka, including the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) wing of the Directorate General of Health Services and the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR),” he said.

“They are taking steps to conduct necessary investigations and reporting under IHR (International Health Regulations) protocols.”

Health officials have initiated follow-up procedures, and additional laboratory testing is expected to provide definitive confirmation of whether the cases are indeed Zika virus infections.

Zika virus is typically spread by Aedes mosquitoes and can lead to symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis.

While often mild, the virus can pose serious risks during pregnancy, potentially leading to birth defects.