Pune continues to grapple with an increasing number of Zika virus cases, as the total number of patients in the city has now reached 100.

Alarmingly, 45 of these patients are pregnant women, raising concerns over the vulnerability of this population. Adding to the concern, five Zika-related deaths have been reported, all involving elderly individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

The most affected area in Pune is Dahanukar Colony, which has recorded 20 cases, followed by Erandwane with 16. Other areas such as Kharadi, Ghole Road, Pashan, Sukhsagarnagar, Mundhwa, Wanwadi, and Koregaon Park have also seen significant case numbers.

The five deaths include a 72-year-old man from Kharadi, a 95-year-old woman from Pashan, a 78-year-old man from Baner, a 68-year-old man from Kothrud, and a 76-year-old man from Karvenagar.

All of these individuals were elderly and had comorbidities, but the exact cause of their deaths is still under investigation. Their medical reports have been sent to the state's health department, where a review committee will determine the precise cause of death.

Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer at Pune Municipal Corporation, provided updates on the situation, noting that efforts to control the spread of the Zika virus are ongoing. Meanwhile, local health authorities continue to monitor the affected areas closely.

This recent spike in Zika cases follows a series of warnings from health authorities, who had anticipated a possible outbreak. The city is now facing increased pressure to manage the outbreak, particularly as the number of pregnant women affected by the virus grows.