Minister of Health Dr. Abdullah Khaleel has urged the public to exercise caution when dealing with Chikungunya, as the disease continues to spread at an expedite rate.
On a social media post, Minister Dr. Khaleel raised concerns on the increasing number of cases reported, disclosing that a total of 59 cases of Chikungunya were reported in since April 1. The minister stressed that the weather is anticipated to be rainy with the south-west monsoon, creating the perfect environment for mosquitoes to breed. Hence, he highlighted the importance of destroying the breeding grounds of mosquitos, as it is the main cause of spreading the communicable disease.
Similar to Dengue Fever, Chikungunya is a contagious disease caused by aedes mosquitoes. Symptoms of the disease are often recognised within a span of three to seven days subsequent the mosquito bite with the virus. Some common symptoms of the disease include: high fever (with temperatures greater than 39 °C), severe headache and body pain, pain in joint, stomach ache and rashes.
Health Protection Agency (HPA) revealed that the disease affects the fetus, children, elderly people as well as individuals who are undergoing treatment.
There are several measures that can be implemented to reduce or prevent the spread of the viral disease. This includes; destroying mosquito breeding grounds, covering skin, applying insect repellent and lotion and using screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
Chikungunya can be treated by increasing fluid intake, resting, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding pills other than panadol or paracetamol when having fever or body pain. If the fever lasts longer than three to seven days, or if any other symptoms are showing, it is advisable to get medical assistance with no further delay.