Pune City Witnesses Rise in Zika Virus Cases: Two Pregnant Women Affected

Health officials in Pune city have reported a concerning rise in Zika virus cases, with six individuals, including two pregnant women, testing positive for the infection. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been actively monitoring the situation.

Dr. Kalpana Baliwant, the health officer for the PMC, disclosed that a total of 25 samples were collected for testing. Among these samples, 12 were from the Erandwane area, where two pregnant women were among those who tested positive for the Zika virus. An additional 13 samples were gathered from Mundhwa, although no cases were detected in that region.

The Zika virus, first identified in Uganda in 1947, is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are also known carriers of dengue and chikungunya.

Due to the risks associated with Zika virus infection during pregnancy, the two pregnant women who tested positive are closely monitored. The virus can lead to severe complications for the fetus, including microcephaly, characterized by abnormally small head size and neurological impairments.

Health officials have assured that both pregnant women are in stable condition and asymptomatic. Efforts are underway to contain the spread of the Zika virus in Pune city and provide necessary care to those affected.

The emergence of Zika virus cases in urban areas like Pune underscores the importance of continued vigilance and comprehensive mosquito control measures to prevent further transmission of the virus.