No need to panic over Chikungunya

COLOMBO: There is no need to panic over Chikungunya fever as is not a deadly disease, Health Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Addressing a media conference at the Health Education Bureau to announce the results of the tests done by five laboratories in Sri Lanka, India and Thailand, Minister de Silva told the media that the State, Local Government bodies and the public have a greater role to play in combating the disease.

"It is our business to see that the environment is kept clean. If we take extra care to keep our houses, gardens and the public places free of mosquito breeding grounds, then we can prevent the spreading of this viral fever," he said.

Dr. S. Amunugama, Director Health Education Bureau in his remarks said that the tests done have proved that Chikungunya fever is present in Sri Lanka.

"Chikungunya fever is not a life threatening infection. No vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is available. Rest, fluids and paracetamol relieve the symptoms of fever and joint pain. Aspirin should be avoided during the acute stage of the illness," he added.

"We sent blood samples to recognised institutions for their reports and we are now being told that from the cases submitted, 60 per cent are Chikungunya plus. Hence we decided to announce to the public the outcome and seek their cooperation to put a stop to the spread of the disease," he said.

Dr. Paba Palihawadana observed that Chikungunya is transmitted by the dengue mosquito.

Therefore the best way to avid the sickness was to prevent mosquito bites. She advised the use of mosquito nets whenever possible.

She further said that the disease has been reported from Kalmunai, Puttalam, Batticaloa, Mannar, Colombo and a few cases have been reported from Matale.