200 feared stricken with ‘Chikungunya’

byFreddie G. Lazaro

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur — Health authorities are closely monitoring 200 people stricken with fever and other symptoms of chikungunya in the municipality of Burgos, this province.

Municipal Health Officer Edgar Rante confirmed that as of yesterday, 200 residents are suspected of having contracted the mosquito-borne virus similar to dengue fever, but characterized by joint pains.

Rante said that the municipal government has already sought the assistance of the Department of Health (DOH) to help in medication of the victims; contain the spread of the disease; and prepare other remedial measures.

While closely monitoring the patients, the Municipal Health Office is advising residents to observe cleanliness and sanitation to eliminate chikungunya-carrying mosquitoes.

Rante also called on residents to be vigilant in watching out for symptoms of chikungunya in family members.

According to medical experts, some symptoms of chikungunya are the presence of skin rashes; pain in the lower back; joint pain with or without the presence of swelling; vomiting; nausea; headaches; chills; and fever.

The chikungunya, an anthropod-borne virus of the genus Alpavirus, is transmitted to humans by the aedes mosquitoes in which its incubation period observed from two to six days with symptoms usually appearing between the fourth day and seventh day post-infection.

Some steps have been recommended by the DOH to prevent being afflicted with chikungunya virus, among them: applying of insect repellants; wearing protective clothing; and staying in areas with screens.