The number of confirmed Zika virus cases in Pune has increased to six, including 2 pregnant women.
On Monday, two more cases were reported, including a 35-year-old pregnant woman from Ganesh Nagar, Erandwane. This woman, who is 14 weeks pregnant, lives just 150 metres from the first reported case in the city.
Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), emphasised the seriousness of the situation. "The woman is asymptomatic, and her anomaly scan is due. We have to monitor her health and the growth of the fetus," he said.
The National Institute of Virology (NIV) confirmed the latest case after testing samples sent on June 27. While four other samples tested negative, the Zika virus was detected in the pregnant woman's sample.
Currently, Pune has reported six Zika virus cases: A 46-year-old doctor and his 15-year-old daughter from Erandwane. A 47-year-old woman and her 22-year-old son from Mundhwa.
Two pregnant women, aged 28 and 35, from Ganesh Nagar, Erandwane.The 28-year-old pregnant woman was diagnosed on June 28, while the 35-year-old was confirmed positive on Monday. Both women are in good condition and are asymptomatic.
Zika virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which also spreads dengue and chikungunya. The virus was first identified in Uganda in 1947.
To know more about Zika Virus:
Zika, A New Virus In Mosquitos Puts Karnataka On High Alert
Pune Municipal Corporation’s Response
- PMC is actively conducting surveillance and taking measures like fogging and fumigation to stop mosquito breeding.
- Residents in affected areas are advised to avoid mosquito bites and watch for Zika symptoms.
- The PMC is working closely with health authorities to track and contain the virus.
- Citizens are urged to follow guidelines and take precautions.
Zika Virus During Pregnancy: Concerning
Pregnant women infected with the Zika virus are at higher risk. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects like microcephaly, where a baby is born with a smaller-than-normal head, as well as other congenital abnormalities.
Health officials are conducting anomaly scans for them and increasing surveillance in affected areas. They are taking extra precautions to monitor pregnant women to prevent these serious complications.
(Inputs from Agencies)
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