Chikungunya more prevalent in Mansa

Forty-eight cases of chikungunya have been have been reported in Mansa district this year against 36 of dengue, according to official records.

However, locals disputed the figures, claiming that the situation was worse and the actual numbers were much higher.

Though officials did not admit this, they acknowledged that the number of chikungunya cases was higher this year.

Dr Santosh Bharti, District Epidemiologist, said, “The testing service is available at Budhlada and Mansa Civil Hospitals, hence, a higher number of patients are being recorded.”

“Separate wards have been set up for vector-borne viral diseases and mosquito nets have been installed. These mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water, not dirty water,” the doctor said.

Asked about the reason behind the higher number of chikungunya cases, he said, “This is because of our surveillance, and nothing else.”

He said an MD (Medicine) doctor is available three days a week at Mansa and three days at the Budhlada Civil Hospital.

Advocate Aneesh Jindal, a resident of Mansa, said, “There are some localities, such as the bus stand area and Lalluana Road, where several families have more than one chikungunya patient. The administration is doing almost nothing. Even mosquito control measures, including fogging, are being carried out by some local organisations.”

“The sewage system has collapsed and garbage lies scattered almost everywhere. We are just awaiting the outbreak of disease,” added Aneesh.

What is chikungunya

Chikungunya is a viral disease spread by aedes mosquitoes. It causes high fever, severe joint pain, headache and rashes. Though rarely fatal, joint pain can last for weeks. There is no specific cure, treatment focuses on rest, fluids and pain relief.

What is dengue

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by aedes aegypti mosquitoes. It causes high fever, headache, body pain, eye pain and rashes. In severe cases, it can lead to haemorrhagic fever or shock and may be fatal. Patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and take paracetamol for fever.