Zika Virus Cases Confirmed in Pune: 20 Contacts Tested, No Cases in Pimpri Chinchwad
Pune, 28th June 2024: Pune residents are on edge following the identification of three Zika virus patients within the city. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Health Department is closely monitoring individuals who have had contact with these patients, with samples from 20 contacts sent to the National Institute of Virology in Camp for testing. Results are awaited as PMC implements measures to contain the virus.
Samples from 20 individuals who had contact with the Zika patients in Pune have been forwarded to the National Institute of Virology in Camp for further examination. The cases were discovered in the Erandwane and Mundhwa areas, prompting a survey of 2,422 properties to identify potential symptoms.
The Zika virus detection has heightened concerns among Pune residents. On Wednesday, a doctor and a 15-year-old girl in Erandwane tested positive, followed by another case in Kondhwa the next day. All three patients are currently receiving treatment in hospitals and are reported to be in stable condition under regular medical supervision.
No Zika Patients in Pimpri Chinchwad
Despite cases in PMC jurisdiction, residents of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) remain unaffected, as no cases have been reported there yet. Dr. Laxman Gophane, Medical Officer of PCMC’s Health Department, has issued guidelines to local doctors regarding protocol if a case is identified. Dr. Gophane assured, “While cases have been confirmed in Pune, there are none in Pimpri Chinchwad at present. We are prepared with protocols should a case arise.”
Nashik Conducts Door-to-Door Zika Inspections
In response to the Zika outbreak in Pune, other municipal corporations are also stepping up vigilance. Nashik Municipal Corporation has initiated door-to-door inspections, requiring private hospitals to report patient information. PMC has heightened alertness amid concerns over undisclosed treatment of Zika patients by private hospitals. Nashik’s Medical Department is closely monitoring private healthcare facilities and has requested information on suspected Zika cases.
