Pune has recorded 75 Zika virus cases, with 30 concentrated in Erandwane and Dahanukar Colony, according to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). These areas are experiencing active transmission, contributing to the higher numbers. Four suspected Zika-related deaths have been reported, one each in Baner, Kharadi, Warje, and Kothrud. Critical virus presence was detected in adult mosquitoes and larvae in July by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.
State entomologist Dr. Mahendra Jagtap emphasized the urgency of vector control measures to curb active transmission, underscoring that comprehensive screening and surveillance are underway. The initial Zika cases were found in a 46-year-old doctor from Erandwane and his 15-year-old daughter. Among the 75 reported cases are 33 expecting mothers.
Dr. Suryakant Devkar, PMC’s assistant health officer, noted the elite demographic in the affected areas, with frequent international travel likely contributing to the virus spread. The PMC has increased manpower for surveillance and focuses on immediate measures to reduce transmission and prevent further spread. Zika cases have emerged in 12 out of 15 ward jurisdictions under the PMC’s purview, indicating widespread local transmission.
Joint Director of Health Services Dr. Radhakrishnan Pawar stressed that Zika can pose serious risks to fetuses, mandating tests for all pregnant women in affected zones. Genome sequencing identified the virus as the Asian strain. Despite guidelines from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), only 16% of expecting mothers in the active transmission areas have been tested so far.
The city’s lack of an entomologist for eight years highlights a significant gap in preventive measures against vector-borne diseases. After Zika cases emerged, entomologists from the Public Health Department conducted surveys to mitigate the outbreak. Authorities are keenly focused on intensifying public health measures to bring the situation under control.
Original Story https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/pune-news/erandwane-dahanukar-colony-hit-hard-as-zika-cases-surge-to-75-101723314090057.html
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