Delhi Chikungunya outbreak: 10 deaths reported
Delhi is fighting with one of the worst outbreaks of the chikungunya virus, where more than 1000 cases have been registered across the city.
It has been reported that 10 people have also died due to this illness. But health minister JP Nadda told that government is investigating whether the virus can be linked to deaths, as many who died were also suffering from other illness such as Kidney disease or high blood pressure.
Although it is unclear as to why Delhi has been affected so severely this year, heavier rainfall along with a large number of construction projects could be a factor, as it can create many stagnant pools of water where mosquitoes can breed.
Following the outcry, the Indian government has asked local authorities to provide them with a detailed report about the situation.
Mr. Nadda had blamed Delhi’s Chief Minister for the crisis, saying he had not shown adequate seriousness in tackling the situation. The BJP has demanded the resignation of the Delhi Chief Minister.
Delhi Water minister Kapil Mishra, who met Arvind Kejriwal in Bangalore, quoted the Chief Minister as saying, “We have to fight these diseases together, forgetting politics. No matter what, we will have to be united in eliminating these diseases and mosquitoes.”
Chikungunya is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes that bite during daylight hours.
Symptoms include the sudden onset of fever and joint pain, particularly affecting the hands, wrists, ankles, and feet. Most patients recover after a few days but in some cases, the joint pain may persist for weeks, months or even longer. It cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Prevention is better than cure:
- It is advised to wear long sleeved clothes and trousers to minimize skin exposure.
- Wear insect repellent at all times.
- Check your nearby areas for water-filled containers, which may facilitate mosquito breeding.
- Make sure bathrooms are completely dry and that toilet seats are kept down when not being used.
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