DOH data shows 382% increase in chikungunya cases

Metro Manila, December 28 ------ Cases of mosquito-borne disease chikungunya in the country have reached 2,928 this year, 382% higher than last year’s 600 cases, Department of Health (DOH) data showed. From Nov. 26 to Dec. 2 alone, the DOH recorded 15 cases of the disease. The highest number of recorded chikungunya cases is in the Cordillera Administrative Region with 1,146 this year. No deaths among the cases from have been reported so far, the department added.

Despite the higher overall numbers, DOH said chikungunya cases have been on a decline over the last two weeks. From Nov. 19 to Dec. 2, DOH recorded 57 cases of the disease — 51% lower than the 116 cases logged two weeks prior. “Based on five-year data, chikungunya cases usually increase during the rainy season, from June to September. This year, the trend is similar with cases currently at a downtrend after the higher numbers reported during the rainy season,” it said.

Chikungunya symptoms are characterized by fever, severe joint pain and swelling, headache, body pain, nausea, fatigue, and rashes. Symptoms appear between four and seven days after the patient has been bitten by an infected mosquito. The agency advised the public to do its “5S Strategy” to prevent the viral disease: Search and destroy mosquito nests such as old tires, clogged drains, and water containers; do Self-protection measures such as wearing long sleeves and using mosquito repellant; Seek early consultation with a doctor if symptoms are being experienced; Support fogging in hotspot areas; and finally, Sustain hydration or drink enough clean water. “While there is no specific medicine for chikungunya itself, a doctor can prescribe the patient medicines to reduce pain and inflammation. Bathing with lukewarm water can also help someone with a fever,” the DOH concluded. Meanwhile, the department also reported a 23% decline this year in cases of dengue, another mosquito-borne disease.

The DOH recorded 195,603 dengue cases with 657 deaths in 2023. That's down from last year’s 252,700 cases, with 894 deaths.

Source: cnnphilippines.com