Pune, 7th July 2024: The city has reported two new cases of Zika virus infection, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 11. Among these, five patients are pregnant, raising significant concern for the health department. The spread of Zika infection across different parts of the city has led to predictions of a further increase in cases.
Initially, four Zika cases were detected in the Erandwane area, including two pregnant women. Subsequently, two patients, one of whom is pregnant, were found in the Kodre Wasti area of Mundhwa. Additional cases have emerged in Dahanukar Colony, Pashan, and Ambegaon Budruk, with the patients in Pashan and Ambegaon Budruk also being pregnant. Recently, new infections have been reported in Karvenagar and Kharadi areas.
A 42-year-old woman working at a private hospital in Karvenagar tested positive for Zika. She had been experiencing fever for one to two weeks, prompting the hospital to send her blood and urine samples to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing. Her condition is currently stable. In Kharadi, a 22-year-old man showed symptoms of fever and a red rash. His samples also tested positive for Zika at the NIV.
“Two cases of Zika have been detected in Karvenagar and Kharadi areas. Preventive measures have been taken in the areas where the patients were found. Additionally, a screening campaign for pregnant women in these areas is underway,” said Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer, Municipal Corporation.
