The number of Zika virus cases in the state has climbed to 140 this year, with Pune emerging as the worst-affected district, reporting 109 cases. The disease, transmitted by Aedes mosquito bites, has become a significant public health concern.
Five fatalities, all from Pune, involved senior citizens with underlying health conditions. The State Health Department’s Death Investigation Committee clarified that while these deaths were primarily due to co-morbidities, Zika’s role as a contributing factor cannot be overlooked.
Case Distribution Across Districts
According to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC):
- Pune: 109
- Ahmednagar: 11
- Pune Rural: 10
- Pimpri-Chinchwad: 6
- Mumbai, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Solapur: 1 case each
A total of 2,068 blood samples were sent for testing to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), of which 140 tested positives for Zika. Alarmingly, 63 of these cases involve pregnant women, raising concerns due to the virus’s potential to cause congenital disabilities.
Focus on Pregnant Women and Surveillance
In response to the outbreak, the health department has prioritized screening and monitoring pregnant women in affected zones, providing them with specific guidance to mitigate risks. Fever surveys are being conducted within a three-to-five-kilometre radius of detected cases to identify and contain the spread.
Preventive Measures
To curb the outbreak, authorities are intensifying efforts, including:
- Spraying insecticides to target Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
- Educating the public about eliminating breeding grounds in clean, stagnant water
- Advising residents to cover stored water and maintain clean surroundings
The government urges citizens to cooperate with health officials to prevent further spread of the virus.