The discovery of a Zika virus case in Pune has prompted swift action from health authorities, particularly the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). In response to a 64-year-old resident of Pratiknagar, Yerawada, testing positive for Zika, the PMC has intensified surveillance protocols in the affected area.
PMC Health Department’s Vigilant Response:
The PMC Health Department wasted no time in responding to the Zika case. Fumigation efforts have commenced, and a thorough inspection of 500 houses in Pratiknagar has taken place. Fortunately, no cases with Zika symptoms have been identified, and no suspicious community samples have been collected.
The Source of Infection:
The infected woman, a resident of Pratiknagar, had visited Kerala recently, and officials believe that this southern state is the source of the infection. Emphasizing the importance of preventive measures, health authorities are urging locals to adhere to guidelines to curb the spread of the virus.
Timeline of the Case:
- November 11: The woman’s test results confirm the Zika infection, marking the first case in Pune City this year.
- September 25 to October 14: The woman had visited Chennithala village in Kerala.
- November 7 to November 11: She was admitted to Jehangir Hospital and later released.
Further Investigations:
The blood samples of the infected woman’s five family members have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing. Despite no reported symptoms, awaiting verification reports is a precautionary step.
Zika Virus Overview:
The Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, responsible for spreading diseases like dengue and chikungunya. Symptoms, when present, include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, body aches, and joint pains. It’s notable that up to 80% of Zika-infected individuals either show no symptoms or experience only mild ones.
