Health Ministry Warns of Rising Chikungunya Cases

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Ministry of Health has reported a noticeable increase in the spread of chikungunya across the country. 

According to the Epidemiology Unit, a monitoring program has been in place in selected hospitals in the Western Province since last December, and recent findings indicate a rise in patient numbers in the region.

Chikungunya cases have now been reported from all provinces, prompting nationwide surveillance efforts. 

The disease is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which are also vectors for dengue.

Common symptoms include headache, eye redness, sensitivity to light, fever, joint pain, and general body discomfort, typically lasting five to seven days.

The Epidemiology Unit emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean environment to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds as a key preventive measure.