There is currently an outbreak of the Chikungunya virus in Kenya’s northeastern Mandera county which borders Somalia and Ethiopia. Somalia has been at war for over two decades and has no viable structures in place so if this epidemic spills over there will be tremendous damage.
Ethiopia is a stable state however recent fighting has been reported along the border with Eritrea and if this escalates then Ethiopia and indeed that whole area becomes vulnerable to this epidemic.
It is important that this epidemic be contained within the Kenyan walls
So far, Kenya has responded fairly well to this epidemic. Attempts have been made to strengthen the health systems and resources have been sent to the area to educate the people as well as reduce the number of the mosquitoes spreading this virus.
What is Chikungunya?
This is a viral disease that is transmitted to people through mosquito bites.
People infected usually complain of fever, very bad joint pains, red eyes, headaches, nausea and vomiting as well as muscle aches. The hallmark is the severe muscle aches and joint pains. While the fever may go away in about a week or so, the joint pains may continue for years.
These symptoms are worse in the very young and very old as well as those with a poor immune system and death is a possible sequel in this category. It is, therefore, imperative that people in this category avoid travelling to or travelling through areas known with the Chikungunya epidemic.
There was a Chikungunya epidemic in the Caribbean Islands about 3 years ago that spread to some parts of the USA.
What to do if you get Chikungunya viral infection
You need to see a doctor.
You need to take lots of fluids. There is currently to specific medication to treat Chikungunya. Thankfully the disease is self-limiting in about 7-10 days. With a lot of fluids, rest, fever and pain management you should be fine.
Prevention
To prevent getting the Chikungunya infection, you should reduce your exposure to mosquito bites. These can be done by wearing long sleeve shirts and long trousers, the use of mosquito nets in the windows and doors, use air-conditioning if you can, use mosquito repellants on exposed skin when going out, remove empty cans, bottles that can act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. You might also want to read my earlier blog of how to avoid mosquito bites http://blog.drdarams.com//mosquitoes-attracted-others/
Those already infected with this virus should be protected from any other mosquito bites especially during the first week of their illness to reduce the spread of the virus from them to others.
You should know that Chikungunya viral infection could mimic other infections like Malaria, Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Influenza.
“The flood does not hesitate to sweep away a house; the obligation is on the owner to divert the floodwater away from his home” (Yoruba Proverb)
Chikungunya is not a new disease, it comes and goes but each time it comes we should be better prepared to make sure we are not victims.
