Zika Virus Cases Reported In Pune: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention, And Other Details

A 46-year-old doctor and his teenage daughter in Pune have tested positive for the Zika virus, a health official from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) said on Wednesday. Their health condition is currently stable.

The doctor, who lives in the Erandwane area of the city, developed fever and rashes and was admitted to a private hospital. His blood samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) for testing, and on June 21, the results confirmed he had the Zika virus. Following this, the blood samples of his five family members were tested, and his 15-year-old daughter also tested positive.

Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which also spreads dengue and chikungunya. The virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1947. Since then, it has caused outbreaks in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific.

Most people infected with the Zika virus do not show symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they usually include:

• Rash

• Fever

• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)

• Muscle and joint pain

• Malaise (general discomfort)

• Headache

These symptoms typically last for 2-7 days. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects like microcephaly, where the baby's head is smaller than normal. It can also lead to Guillain-Barré syndrome, a condition that causes muscle weakness and paralysis.

There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection. People with symptoms are advised to:

• Get plenty of rest

• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration

• Take acetaminophen for fever and pain

It is important to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen until dengue fever is ruled out, as NSAIDs can increase the risk of bleeding.

According to the World Health Organization, there is no vaccine for Zika virus. Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid infection. Here are some preventive measures:

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants

• Use insect repellent

• Use mosquito nets, especially during the day when Aedes mosquitoes are most active

• Keep doors and windows closed or use screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed

In areas with active Zika transmission, it is also advised to practice safe sex or abstain from sexual activity to prevent sexual transmission of the virus.

After confirming the Zika virus cases, the PMC's health department began surveillance and precautionary measures such as fogging and fumigation to control mosquito breeding. The state health department has collected mosquito samples for analysis. Public awareness campaigns are being conducted, and special attention is being given to monitoring the health of pregnant women in the area to prevent complications from Zika virus infection.