Six cases of Zika Virus reported in Pune; two were pregnant women

Pune has reported six cases of Zika virus infection, including two pregnant women, according to city health officials

The virus, transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, poses a significant risk to pregnant women as it can cause microcephaly in the fetus, a condition where the head is significantly smaller due to abnormal brain development. A 28-year-old pregnant woman from Erandwane tested positive for Zika virus on July 1, as did another woman who is 12 weeks pregnant. Both women are in good condition and asymptomatic. The initial case in Erandwane involved a 46-year-old doctor, followed by his 15-year-old daughter.

The remaining two cases, a 47-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man, are from Mundhwa. The Zika virus, first identified in Uganda in 1947, is known for mild symptoms such as fever, rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, and headache, which typically last two to seven days. However, most infected individuals do not develop symptoms. In response to the outbreak, the Pune Municipal Corporation’s health department is conducting surveillance and implementing measures like fogging and fumigation to prevent mosquito breeding. These precautions aim to curb the spread of the virus and protect the community.