New Delhi: In response to the rise in Zika virus cases in Pune, the Centre has issued an advisory to all states, urging them to increase vigilance.
Zika virus disease (ZVD) is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. While it typically presents as a mild to moderate illness in adults and does not require specific treatment, it can cause microcephaly—a condition characterized by an abnormally small head due to improper brain development—in fetuses of pregnant women.
As of July 2, Maharashtra has reported eight cases of Zika virus. Six of these cases are from Pune, one from Kolhapur, and one from Sangamner. Notably, two of the infected individuals are pregnant women.
“In response to reported Zika virus cases from Maharashtra, Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), has issued an advisory to all states emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance over the Zika virus situation in the country,” the Health Ministry stated.
The ministry urged states “to direct health facilities in affected areas, or those receiving cases from affected areas, to screen pregnant women for Zika virus infection.”
Health workers must also “monitor the growth of the fetuses of Zika-positive women” and “follow Central government guidelines accordingly,” the ministry added.
The advisory also instructed health facilities and hospitals to appoint a nodal officer to monitor and ensure the premises remain free of Aedes mosquitoes.
Additionally, it called on states to “enhance entomological surveillance and intensify vector control activities in residential areas, workplaces, schools, construction sites, institutions, and health facilities.”
Currently, Zika testing facilities are available at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi, and selected virus research and diagnostic laboratories of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
