Pune: A new case of Zika virus infection has been confirmed in the Mundhwa area of Pune, adding to the three previously reported cases in the city.
The municipal administration has stated that the infected individual is in good health. In response, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a comprehensive survey in the affected areas of Erandwane and Mundhwa to identify suspected cases and prevent the spread of the virus.
Blood samples from eight individuals have been sent for testing. Two cases were identified in Erandwane, while the new case in Mundhwa involves a young male whose mother had also contracted the virus. The private hospital's delay in reporting these cases to the PMC has resulted in a show-cause notice being issued to the facility.
Controlling Zika Spread
Dr. Kalpana Balivant, Acting Chief Health Officer, confirmed the patient's stable condition. The PMC health department has launched a detailed survey, focusing on regions where cases have been reported. In Erandwane, 2,422 residents have been surveyed, including five pregnant women and three suspected cases, whose blood samples are currently being analyzed by the National Institute of Virology (NIV).
In addition, larval surveys have been conducted in 2,473 households, with mosquito larvae found in 79 homes. Inspections of 5,044 water storage units revealed mosquito larvae in 135 of them.
In Mundhwa, surveys covered 2,089 residents and 1,050 households, finding larvae in 49 locations. Of the 3,523 water storage units inspected, larvae were detected in 73 places. Preventive measures, including insecticide spraying, have been carried out in these areas.
Importance of Prompt Reporting by Private Hospitals
The PMC has urged private hospitals to promptly report cases of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya to the municipal health department to facilitate timely intervention and control measures. Delay or failure in reporting can hinder public health efforts to contain outbreaks.
Safety measures for the public
To protect against mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, citizens are advised to:
Wear full-body covering clothes.
Use creams to repel mosquitoes.
Utilize mosquito nets and other preventive measures.
Ensure water does not accumulate in refrigerators, coolers, plant pots, plastic cups, coconut shells, or tires.
Why Zika virus risk is increasing in Pune
The PMC is actively addressing the rising threat of the Zika virus in Pune, particularly concerning for pregnant women. Immediate and accurate information sharing, along with preventive measures, are crucial in mitigating the spread of the virus and ensuring public health safety.
