The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported 78 cases of Chikungunya in March.
HPA stated that the majority of these cases were concentrated in Male' City, with reports also emerging from various atolls across the country. HPA revealed most cases were reported from people aged 25 years and above.
The HPA is collaborating with relevant authorities to mitigate mosquito breeding grounds to combat the spread of the disease. The strategies include systematic destruction and cleanup of such areas. In addition, the agency has devised a framework to bolster disease surveillance and reporting mechanisms. Measures such as clinical management sessions and public awareness campaigns are underway to enhance treatment protocols for individuals infected.
HPA stated that there is a heightened risk of increased mosquito breeding with the impending rainy season, potentially leading to a surge in mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Chikungunya. As such, the agency stressed the importance of immediate preventive actions by individuals to mitigate such risks.
Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito and is more prevalent during the rainy season. Characterised by joint pain and inflammation, symptoms typically manifest within three to seven days following exposure to the virus through a mosquito bite.