2 Cases of Chikungunya, Stay Alert !

In a disquieting development for public health, a second local case of chikungunya has been confirmed in the country. This time, it involves a man in his forties residing in Rivière-Noire. The alarming news was revealed on Thursday 20th March by Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, the interim director of health services.

The patient sought medical attention after displaying a range of troubling symptoms consistent with this viral disease, transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes.

Following comprehensive medical examinations, the diagnosis of chikungunya was definitively established.

The Ministry of Health has since reported that the individual has been hospitalised, though his condition is currently described as stable.

In light of this situation, health authorities are enhancing prevention measures across the affected region.

Dr Khodabocus announced that contact tracing efforts are actively underway.

This crucial operation aims to identify and monitor individuals who have had close contact with the patient, thereby seeking to curtail the virus’s spread and detect any potential new cases swiftly.

Simultaneously, rigorous fumigation operations are being conducted in Rivière-Noire and neighbouring areas to eradicate the mosquitoes that serve as the virus’s vectors.

These efforts involve spraying insecticides to eliminate both adult mosquitoes and their larvae, significantly diminishing the risk of transmission within the community.

As the threat looms, the Ministry of Health urges the public to remain vigilant and adopt protective measures against mosquito bites. Among the vital recommendations are:

• The use of insect repellents
• The elimination of stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes

Collective action and awareness become the strongest allies in the fight against chikungunya and its potentially dire consequences.

Source: Defi Media