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Pune, July 1, 2024 — Concerns over Zika virus infections have escalated in Pune as two new cases were reported on Friday, bringing the total count in the city to five. Of particular worry is a 28-year-old pregnant woman from Ganeshnagar, Erandwane, whose diagnosis has raised alarms among health officials.
The Public Health Department confirmed that samples from the pregnant woman tested positive for Zika virus at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) on Friday. This development comes amid ongoing efforts to contain the spread of the virus in the area.
Earlier this month, on June 20, a doctor aged 46 and his 15-year-old daughter were identified as the first cases in Erandwane. The recent cases also include a 22-year-old man from Mundhwa, whose mother had previously tested positive for Zika.
Dr. Rajesh Dighe, assistant health officer of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), indicated that extensive surveillance and screening measures are being implemented in affected areas. “We have initiated screening protocols for all pregnant women within a five-kilometre radius of Erandwane,” he stated.
Health authorities underscored the potential risks associated with Zika virus during pregnancy. Dr. Supriya Puranik, a senior consultant obstetrician, warned of complications such as microcephaly, a condition where babies are born with abnormally small heads. “Zika virus can lead to serious health issues in newborns, including eye problems, hearing loss, and seizures,” she emphasized.
The spike in cases has prompted legislative action, with Dr. Neelam Gorhe, deputy speaker of the Legislative Council, expressing concern during a recent session. “The increasing cases of Zika virus in Pune district, possibly exacerbated by pilgrims visiting Pandharpur Palkhi, demand immediate attention,” she remarked.
In response, Health Minister Uday Samant assured the Legislative Council of swift administrative measures. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure all necessary steps are taken to mitigate the spread of Zika virus in Pune,” he affirmed.
Authorities continue to urge residents, especially pregnant women, to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms such as fever and rash, commonly associated with Zika virus infection.
The Public Health Department has advised residents to follow preventive measures diligently to curb the further spread of the virus in the community.
