Pune, 6th July 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has reported six confirmed cases of Zika virus in the city. With pregnant women at the highest risk from Zika, the municipal health department is prioritizing their examination to prevent potential complications.
The detected cases are located in the Erandwane, Mundhwa, and Dahanukar Colony areas. In response, blood samples from 41 pregnant women in these regions have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing.
A Zika infection poses significant risks to both pregnant women and their fetuses. Consequently, the health department has initiated screenings of pregnant women in the affected areas. In Erandwane, where there are 72 pregnant women, 14 samples have been sent to the NIV. Similarly, 18 out of 60 samples from Mundhwa and 9 out of 351 samples from Dahanukar Colony have also been submitted for testing.
In total, the health department has sent 64 samples, including those from pregnant women, to the NIV. However, results for only 25 samples have been received so far, leaving approximately 40 pending. Delays in receiving test results are attributed to the high volume of samples being processed by the NIV from across the country.
With the onset of the rainy season, the incidence of insect-borne diseases is on the rise. In response, the Municipal Corporation has intensified its efforts to prevent the spread of these diseases. The health department is conducting extensive surveys throughout the city, identifying mosquito larvae in 246 houses. As a result, 82 notices have been issued, and fines totaling Rs. 66,800 have been collected, according to Assistant Health Officer Dr. Rajesh Dighe.
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
