Lagatar24 Desk
Pune: In the wake of a Zika virus outbreak in Pune, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has confirmed that no abnormalities have been detected in the foetuses of Zika-infected pregnant women. Since June, Pune has reported over 73 Zika cases, including 32 involving pregnant women.
According to PMC’s health department, anomaly scans for 22 of the 32 pregnant women and a nuchal translucency (NT) scan for one have all returned normal results. The remaining nine women, who are between 11 and 34 weeks pregnant, will undergo further tests to check for any potential birth defects, as stated by Dr. Suryakant Devkar, Assistant Health Officer of PMC.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has emphasized that Zika virus can be transmitted through mosquito bites, from mother to foetus, and through sexual contact. Pregnant women in affected areas are advised to undergo testing for the Zika virus, particularly if they are asymptomatic or showing symptoms. If initial tests are negative, further testing is recommended at 28 weeks of gestation.
Scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune have identified the Zika virus strain affecting the area as an Asian genotype. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte, head of the microbiology department at B J Medical College, explained that while Zika virus traditionally caused mild symptoms in Africa and Asia, the 2015 outbreak in Brazil highlighted severe neurological risks, including microcephaly and Guillain–Barré syndrome. The Asian lineage has been linked to recent epidemics.
The MoHFW guidelines recommend that pregnant women undergo two ultrasound examinations: one between 18 to 20 weeks and another between 28 to 30 weeks of gestation. Additional scans may be required based on medical advice.
Dr. Radhakishan Pawar, Joint Director of Health Services and State Head for the Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme, highlighted the importance of continued preventive measures against mosquito bites and regular prenatal care. Despite the positive findings, the health department will maintain close monitoring of Zika-infected pregnancies.
Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can cause mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic. In pregnant women, it poses risks such as congenital microcephaly and other neurological issues. The PMC remains vigilant in ensuring the health and safety of affected individuals.
