Thai authorities have stepped up surveillance after two pregnant women in Bangkok were found to have been infected with the Zika virus, which has been linked with microcephaly.

As many as 97 Zika cases were reported in Thailand in the first six months of this year. (Photo: .gmanetwork.com)

Since the beginning of this year, health authorities have discovered eight cases of Zika virus, including the two pregnants in the capital city.

One of the women gave birth to a baby who has no symptoms of the virus, but authorities will continue to monitor the baby’s health.

Another infected woman currently has an 18-week-old pregnancy and her condition is being closely monitored.

Meanwhile, the number of Zika cases in the northern province of Chiang Mai increased to 11, said local authorities.

The number of Zika cases this year has increased significantly compared to recent years. As many as 97 Zika cases were reported in the country in the first six months of this year.

An average of five Zika cases were discovered each year between 2012-2015.

(Source: VNA)