Even as no new cases of Zika virus infection were reported by the Pune Municipal Corporation’s health department today, officials said they were awaiting results of a total of 41 samples of pregnant women that have been collected from areas where the Zika virus infection cases were detected. These have now been sent to the National Institute of Virology. So far two pregnant women have tested positive for the infection and are asymptomatic. A total of six cases have been reported so far by civic health authorities.
“We have also conducted surveillance activities at more than 10-12 large hospitals in Karve Nagar, Warje, Hadapsar and Mundhwa areas to check for mosquito breeding sites and planned a meeting with doctors of major hospitals on Monday,” Dr Kalpana Baliwant, Acting chief medical officer, Pune Municipal Corporation said.
“As Zika is associated with microcephaly and neurological consequences in the foetus of the affected pregnant lady, we want to alert the clinicians for close monitoring”, Dr Baliwant added. In their advisory the centre has directed states to instruct the health facilities in the affected areas or those catering to cases from affected areas to screen the pregnant women for Zika virus infection and monitor the growth of the foetus of expecting mothers who have tested positive for Zika.
As per the Central Government Guidelines, states have been instructed to advise health facilities/hospitals to identify a nodal officer to monitor and act to keep the premises Aedes mosquito-free. “Accordingly, we have stepped up surveillance activities across Zones 3 and 4 that include areas of Warje, Karve Nagar, Sinhagad road and Hadapsar, Wanowrie, Mudhwa and others,” Dr Rajesh Dighe, Assistant chief medical officer, PMC said.
Earlier this week, as part of the surveillance activities, breeding sites were detected at some hospitals and large cooperative housing societies. “We have issued notices,” Dr Dighe added. According to senior officials with PMC, the surveillance activity includes a thorough check of the hospitals from terrace to basement.
“At many places, hospitals have appointed an agency to undertake pre-monsoon work, hence only a few mosquito breeding sites were found,” the officials said. On Friday, the insect control team of PMC conducted surveillance activities across 7791 homes at Erandwane- Warje, Mundhwa- Hadapsar, Dahanukar colony- Kothrud . “PMC health teams identified mosquito breeding sites at 246 homes and at least 82 notices have been issued. A fine of Rs 66,800 has been levied from the defaulters.
Dr Dighe has appealed citizens to empty water containers, air coolers and ensure that there are no mosquito breeding sites within their homes.
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First uploaded on: 05-07-2024 at 20:54 IST
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.
