Pune: Zika virus spreading, 47 patients detected

Pune: The number of Zika virus patients are rapidly rising in the city. It has reached 47 now. The Pune Municipal Corporation has asked citizens to take precautions. The civic body has also taken steps to check its spread.

Two senior citizens reportedly died of Zika virus infection recently. A Public Health Department committee will examine the exact reason behind their deaths. The highest number of zika patients (11) were found in the Erandwane Ward Office area. The two deaths were also reported from Erandwane.

It was learnt that the victims also had some other ailments such as cardiac and liver problems. Therefore, the exact reason was to be confirmed.

Protecting from the zika virus

The Health Department has issued guidelines to protect oneself from a zika infection. Destroy all mosquito breeding sites in and around houses. Keep your house clean. Use the mosquito net. Do not store water for a long period. Put nets to window and door frames. The department is focusing on checking pregnant women as they and their babies are more prone to the ailment. Among the affected are a majority of pregnant women.

Burning neem leaves is a good remedy to avoid breeding of mosquitoes. Do not keep windows and doors open in the evening. Burn camphor at home. Mix neem and coconut oil and apply it on your body to avoid mosquito bites. Consult your doctor if you have a fever for two days, said experts.