Mumbai

The Union Health Ministry has advised states to remain vigilant by screening pregnant women for Zika virus and closely monitoring the development of fetuses of those who test positive. Hospitals and health facilities have designated nodal officers to ensure premises are free of Aedes mosquitoes.

States have been directed to enhance entomological surveillance and intensify vector control activities in residential areas, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions, and health facilities. This proactive approach aims to curb the spread of Zika virus.

In Pune, two additional Zika virus cases were reported on Monday, bringing the city’s total confirmed cases to six. Both new cases involve pregnant women from Erandwane, where the initial cases were reported by a doctor and his daughter. Health authorities have conducted inspections and collected samples in the affected areas.

Kalpana Baliwant, Pune Municipal Corporation’s health officer, reported testing 25 samples, including 12 from Erandwane, with two positive results. Thirteen additional samples from Mundhwa were negative. Pregnant women infected with Zika are closely monitored through anomaly scans, and surveillance in affected areas is being heightened.

The city’s authorities are actively working to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections. The PMC has urged citizens to adhere to guidelines and take precautions to halt the virus’s spread. Police are monitoring the situation closely and implementing necessary measures to control the virus’s transmission in Pune.