The number of chikungunya cases recorded in the Maldives has increased.
In a post on social media, Health Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel raised concerns over the surge in the spread of the disease, noting that 59 cases of chikungunya have been reported in Male' alone this month. The minister emphasized the importance of eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, especially with the upcoming rainy season.
Chikungunya is spread to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. The disease presents with a fever 3-7 days from the day of the bite and causes joint pain and inflammation that lasts for several days.
According to the Health Protection Agency (HPA), chikungunya poses a significant risk to fetuses, children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying chronic illnesses.
