Pune: The first Zika virus infection in Pune this year was reported on June 20. Since then, at least 66 confirmed cases have emerged, according to civic officials. The virus, typically spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes, can also cause severe complications such as microcephaly in newborns if contracted during pregnancy.
Despite the troubling number of infections, officials have confirmed that four patients, aged between 68 to 78, who tested positive for the virus, died due to pre-existing health conditions rather than the Zika virus itself. Among those infected, 26 are pregnant women, who are under close monitoring, with most reportedly in good health.
The health department is actively working to manage the outbreak with measures like surveillance and fumigation to prevent mosquito breeding. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has assured that no deaths have been directly linked to the Zika virus in the country. However, the cases of the deceased will be reviewed by the Maharashtra government’s death audit committee for further assessment.
The ongoing outbreak has highlighted the need for rigorous public health interventions to curb the spread of Zika, which shares vectors with dengue and chikungunya. Authorities continue to advise vigilance and preventive measures to mitigate further transmission.
Original Story https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/zika-virus-66-cases-reported-in-pune-since-june-including-26-pregnant-women-6279568
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