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Zika Virus in Pune: Six Cases Confirmed, Precautionary Measures Urged

Babita Saini
Zika Virus
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Pune has reported six confirmed cases of Zika virus, out of which two new cases were reported on Monday. Both new infections involve pregnant women living in Erandwane. This raises concerns because pregnant women have a higher risk of Zika-related complications.

  • Total Cases: 6
  • New Cases: 2 (Pregnant women in Erandwane)

Previous Cases

  • Doctor and his teenage daughter (Erandwane)
  • 1 Pregnant woman (Erandwane)
  • 22-year-old man (Mundhwa)

After the initial cases, health officials swiftly took action:

Sample Collection: 25 samples collected across Pune

  • Erandwane: 12 samples (7 from pregnant women)
  • Mundhwa: 13 samples

Pregnant Women Monitoring: Anomaly scans conducted for pregnant women with Zika

  • Surveillance Increased: Focus on Erandwane and Mundhwa

Public health authorities are urging residents to:

  • Prevent mosquito bites: Use mosquito nets, and repellents, and wear long clothing.
  • Monitor health: Watch for fever, rash, joint pain, and red eyes.
  • Report symptoms: If you experience Zika symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is working diligently to contain the outbreak. They advise citizens to follow these guidelines and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Zika. The PMC assures close monitoring of the situation and taking all measures to control the virus’s spread.

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What is Zika Virus?

Zika virus is a mosquito-borne illness spread by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, common in many parts of the world. Including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. These mosquitoes are active during the day, so be extra vigilant about mosquito bites throughout the day. It can also spread through sexual contact.

Zika virus is a member of the flavivirus family, which are RNA viruses typically transmitted by mosquitoes. Other mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and West Nile virus also belong to this same flavivirus family.

Pregnant women infected with Zika can pass the virus to their unborn babies. This can cause serious birth defects, like microcephaly, where a baby’s head is smaller than expected.

While Zika usually causes mild symptoms or none at all in adults and children, it’s crucial for pregnant women to be aware of the risks. If you’re pregnant and concerned about Zika, talk to your doctor.

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Zika Virus History

  • 1947: Discovery in Africa – The Zika virus was first isolated from a monkey in the Zika Forest of Uganda.
  • 1952: First Human Cases – Evidence of Zika infection found in humans in Africa.
  • 1960s-1980s: Sporadic Activity – Scattered cases detected across Africa and Asia.
  • 2007: Large-Scale Outbreak – First major outbreak occurs in the South Pacific islands.
  • 2013-2014: Zika in the Americas – Outbreaks reported in French Polynesia.
  • 2015: Spread to the Americas – Local transmission begins in South America, spreading to Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
  • 2015-2016: U.S. Outbreak – Cases of locally transmitted Zika identified in Florida and Texas.
  • 2017: No Local Transmission in U.S. – Zika cases in the U.S. limited to travelers infected abroad.
  • 2021: Continued Endemic Transmission – Zika outbreaks reported in some endemic regions, including India.
  • 2024: Continued Monitoring – Although no major outbreaks are currently reported, Zika virus transmission persists at low levels in several countries, and surveillance efforts remain crucial.

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What are the Symptoms of Zika?

Many people infected with Zika don’t have any symptoms. However, some people may experience:

  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Joint pain
  • Conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes)
  • Headache

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Why is Zika a Concern During Pregnancy?

  • Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects in babies.
  • Microcephaly is the most well-known complication, characterized by an abnormally small head due to underdeveloped brain growth.
  • Beyond microcephaly, Zika can cause a range of developmental issues, including seizures, delays, intellectual disability, movement problems, feeding difficulties, hearing loss, and vision problems.
  • The severity of Zika’s effects on a developing baby seems to depend on the stage of pregnancy when the infection occurs. The first trimester appears to be the highest risk period.

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How to Prevent Zika Virus Infection

  • Avoid mosquito bites:
    • Wear long sleeves and pants.
    • Use insect repellent with DEET or other approved ingredients.
    • Stay in air-conditioned or screened areas.
    • Sleep under a mosquito bed net if needed.
    • Treat clothing and gear with permethrin insecticide (do not apply it directly to the skin).
    • Dress children in clothing that covers their arms and legs, or cover the crib, stroller, or baby carrier with mosquito netting.
  • Prevent sexual transmission:
    • Use condoms or abstain from sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) for recommended periods after travel or Zika diagnosis.
    • Don’t share sex toys.
  • Pregnant women:
    • Avoid travel to Zika-affected areas.
    • If travel is necessary, discuss risks with a doctor and take precautions against mosquito bites.
    • Consider delaying pregnancy if your partner has traveled to a Zika zone.
  • General tips:
    • Stay informed about current Zika outbreaks.
    • Consult a doctor if you experience Zika symptoms.
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