Pune has reported its first two Zika virus cases this year. A doctor and his teenage daughter from the Erandwane area tested positive and are currently undergoing treatment. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated measures such as inspecting the surrounding areas and spraying insecticides to prevent further spread.
Dr. Rajesh Dighe, the assistant health chief of the PMC, confirmed that the doctor operates a clinic in Erandwane and has other clinics across Pune. He began experiencing symptoms and submitted his blood samples for testing at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. These samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), where they tested positive for the Zika virus. His daughter also showed symptoms, and her blood and urine samples were tested. While her blood samples returned negative, her urine test came back positive.
In response, insecticide spraying has been initiated in the vicinity of their home. Residents of the area have been advised to take necessary precautions, especially pregnant women, who are urged to undergo special check-ups. The Zika virus spreads through the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also causes dengue and chikungunya. The health department has inspected and sprayed insecticides at the affected individuals' workplaces as well. The PMC has appealed to the public not to panic, stating that the situation is under control.
The doctor, 46, lives with his family, including his parents, wife, and 15-year-old daughter, who has mild symptoms such as a fever. Other family members have tested negative for the virus. Following the confirmation of the infection, the PMC conducted a thorough inspection and released an advisory urging citizens to keep their surroundings clean to prevent any outbreak.
The PMC's assistant health officer, Dr. Dighe, explained that the virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. The PMC has been active in inspecting the area, conducting fumigation, and taking precautionary measures. The corporation has collected Rs 1,21,100 in fines for non-compliance with guidelines and has issued 609 notices to violators.
Between January and June 24, 406 cases of dengue have been reported in Pune. January saw the highest number with 96 cases, while May had the lowest with only 44 cases. The PMC has provided guidelines to stay safe, such as wearing clothes that cover the body, using mosquito repellent, and eliminating places where water can stagnate.
The doctor sought medical intervention on an outpatient basis at a private hospital after developing a fever and rash on June 18. His blood sample, sent to NIV on June 20, confirmed the Zika virus infection on June 21. His daughter’s blood sample, sent to NIV on June 21, was confirmed on June 24. Both are currently stable and receiving outpatient treatment.
The Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Most people infected with Zika show no symptoms, but mild symptoms can include fever, rash, conjunctivitis, body aches, and joint pain. The PMC's health officials and infectious disease experts visited the doctor’s residence after the infection was confirmed.
The PMC will conduct a survey around the residence for the next 14 days and screen people for any symptoms in the surrounding area. They have also initiated fogging and fumigation to control mosquito breeding in the area. Dr. Dighe has urged citizens with fevers to visit the nearest hospitals for checks.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)