Health - Chikungunya: 24 Cases Since January 1st

Two new cases of chikungunya were reported on Monday, February 2nd. These involve a 66-year-old man from Camp-Levieux and a 46-year-old woman from Plaisance, Rose-Hill. These two cases have been added to the two others recorded on Thursday, January 29th, in the Stanley area of Rose-Hill, involving a woman and a man in their thirties. This brings the total number of active local cases of the disease to six, according to Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, the interim director of health services. Since the beginning of the year, 24 local cases of chikungunya have been recorded.

Dr. Khodabocus highlighted that cases continue to be detected mainly in the Rose-Hill region and its surroundings, particularly in Camp-Levieux, Plaisance, Roches-Brunes, and Stanley, despite the actions taken. Previously reported cases were also noted in Cité La Cure, Sainte-Croix, and nearby areas.

Following protocol, public health measures have been implemented around these cases, including the hospitalization of patients to ensure they receive appropriate care. "The Vector Biological Control Division (VBCD) is on site to assess the mosquito population in the affected areas. There are also larviciding exercises, mist blowing, and fogging that have been carried out, along with a fever survey," he added. The public, especially in areas where cases are detected, is urged to take necessary precautions as active mosquitoes carrying the chikungunya virus are present in the region.

Dr. Khodabocus announced that a meeting involving various stakeholders in the Technical Working Group will be held in the coming days, bringing together representatives from the Beau-Bassin/Rose-Hill municipality, the Ministry of the Environment, Local Authorities, and Solid Waste, among others.

The Ministry of Health urges the public to remain vigilant during this rainy season to prevent mosquito proliferation, which could lead to an increase in cases of this disease. It is the responsibility of the entire population to ensure there are no breeding grounds in their yards and around their homes, emphasized the interim director of health services. "Measures should be taken to avoid water accumulation on roofs and in yards, and to properly cover water tanks so that mosquitoes do not have access to them," he stated.

Dr. Khodabocus also suggests wearing long-sleeved clothing and using repellent products to protect against mosquito bites. He advises anyone experiencing joint pain, fever, and skin rashes to consult a doctor promptly for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.