3 More Pregnant Women Test Positive for Zika Virus in Pune, Total Tally Now at 9

Published on July 6, 2024

Pune, India: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified three additional pregnant women who have tested positive for the Zika virus infection, bringing the total count of infected pregnant women to five. Overall, the city has reported nine cases of Zika virus infection.

Surveillance and Screening Efforts

Dr. Rajesh Dighe, assistant chief medical officer at PMC, stated that surveillance activities have been intensified. Samples from pregnant women in areas with confirmed Zika cases have been sent to the National Institute of Virology for testing. So far, 68 samples have been analyzed at the apex laboratory.

Preventive Measures and Counseling

In response to a mosquito breeding site found in a society in Mundhwa, the civic health department imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on the builder. The society houses a 33-year-old woman who is eight weeks pregnant. Although she is asymptomatic, the health team visited her family and provided counseling.

Dr. Dighe emphasized the importance of early detection. The pregnant woman has been advised to undergo a nuchal translucency (NT) scan—an ultrasound that measures fluid behind the baby’s neck during the first trimester. This screening test helps assess the risk of congenital conditions.

Cases Detected

Two pregnant women were among the recent cases. A 27-year-old woman from Ambegaon Bk, Sinhagad Road, in her 12th week of pregnancy, tested positive for Zika. Additionally, a 28-year-old woman from Pashan/Aundh exhibited symptoms like fever and rash. She was admitted to a private hospital. All nine patients with Zika virus infection are currently stable.

Urgent Monitoring

Given the association of Zika with microcephaly and neurological issues in affected fetuses, doctors are closely monitoring pregnant women. Health officials continue to urge citizens to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying water containers and air coolers.

Fines and Notices

The civic health department has collected fines totaling Rs 84,800 from societies and construction sites where mosquito breeding sites were identified. Ninety-two notices have been issued to defaulters.