Mosquito-borne diseases, particularly prevalent during the rainy season in the Maldives, pose a significant health risk to the population. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has reported 78 cases of chikungunya in the past month alone, highlighting the urgency of preventive measures.
Chikungunya, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, shares vectors with diseases like dengue fever. Symptoms usually begin 3–7 days after an infected mosquito bites you.
The most common symptoms of Chikungunya are:
- Fever of more than 39 degrees Celsius
- Severe headache
- Joint pain
- Joint inflammation
- Abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting
- Rash
Certain age groups including newborns infected around the time of birth, elderly people and people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease are impacted more severely. Therefore, it is important for people of these age group to take measures to protect themselves from mosquitoes when outdoors.
Preventing mosquito bites is paramount, especially during peak activity times in the morning and evening.
How to prevent Chikungunya:
- Wear protective clothing that covers exposed skin
- Utilize mosquito nets while sleeping
- Install mosquito nets on windows and keep doors closed to prevent mosquito entry
- Apply mosquito repellents, lotions and sprays
- Regularly clean water accumulation sites as Aedes mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water
- Change water in plant containers and other receptacles weekly to prevent mosquito breeding
Community-wide efforts to eliminate breeding sites and promote awareness of preventive measures are essential in combating mosquito-borne diseases. By adopting these precautions and fostering a culture of vigilance, individuals can safeguard themselves and their communities against the threat posed by chikungunya and other mosquito-borne illnesses.