Zika Virus Alert: Hello friends! Stay updated on the latest Zika virus situation. Together, with PMC’s efforts and your precautions, we can tackle this challenge effectively.
Zika Virus Alert: Current Infection Status
Today, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) health department reported no new cases of Zika virus infection. However, officials are awaiting the results of 41 samples taken from pregnant women in areas where Zika virus cases were previously detected. These samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV). So far, two pregnant women have tested positive for the infection but are asymptomatic. In total, six cases have been confirmed by civic health authorities.
PMC’s Meeting with Hospitals
“We have conducted surveillance activities at more than 10-12 large hospitals in Karve Nagar, Warje, Hadapsar, and Mundhwa areas to check for mosquito breeding sites and have planned a meeting with doctors of major hospitals on Monday,” said Dr. Kalpana Baliwant, Acting Chief Medical Officer, PMC.
Special Care for Pregnant Women
“Since Zika is associated with microcephaly and neurological issues in the fetus of infected pregnant women, we want to alert clinicians for close monitoring,” Dr. Baliwant added. The central advisory has directed states to instruct health facilities in affected areas to screen pregnant women for Zika virus infection and monitor the fetal growth of those who test positive.
Preventing Aedes Mosquito Breeding
As per central government guidelines, states are advised to appoint a nodal officer in hospitals to ensure premises are kept free from Aedes mosquitoes. “Accordingly, we have intensified surveillance activities across Zones 3 and 4, which include areas such as Warje, Karve Nagar, Sinhagad Road, Hadapsar, Wanowrie, Mundhwa, and others,” said Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Chief Medical Officer, PMC.
Zika Virus Alert: Appeal to Citizens
Dr. Dighe has appealed to citizens to empty water containers, clean air coolers, and ensure there are no mosquito breeding sites within their homes. “Earlier this week, during surveillance activities, mosquito breeding sites were detected in some hospitals and large cooperative housing societies. We have issued notices,” Dr. Dighe stated. According to senior officials at PMC, the surveillance activity includes a thorough check from the terrace to the basement of hospitals.
Significant Mosquito Control Measures
On Friday, PMC’s insect control team conducted surveillance across 7,791 homes in areas such as Erandwane-Warje, Mundhwa-Hadapsar, and Dahanukar Colony-Kothrud. “PMC health teams identified mosquito breeding sites in 246 homes and issued at least 82 notices. A fine of Rs 66,800 has been levied on defaulters.”
Conclusion
With PMC’s vigilance and active participation from citizens, we can make significant strides in combating the Zika virus. Cleanliness and awareness are key to solving this issue. Let’s work together to ensure our city remains safe and healthy.
For more such information, please click on this link. To stay connected with us, follow our WhatsApp Channel.
Read this also:
