Shivamogga: Chikungunya has spread in the city’s 31st ward of Gopala, Mallikarjun Nagara, unknown to its residents. The spread of the disease went unnoticed by the people for about a week, the suspicions rising only after ten people were admitted to the McGann District Hospital.
Health officials visited the place on June 22 to get a handle on the situation and gather information.
Today, the number of Chikungunya cases has risen to 15.
It is learnt that Geeta, a resident of the ward, had been out of the district on a trip and got infected without her knowledge. The disease then reportedly spread to the rest of her family upon her return and has now spread to other residents of the locality.
There are about 300 houses in the Mallikarjuna Nagar locality and health officials have taken up the task to spread awareness about the disease and preventive measures to be taken.
The water stored should be kept covered, out of reach of the mosquitoes. Water should not be allowed to accumulate in waste that has been thrown like, plastic bottles, coconut shells etc. Elderly and pregnant women should take extra precautions. To avoid mosquito bites repellents and medications should be used. People are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, said the health officials.
These warning signs of the disease include the following:
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Rapid breathing.
• Persistent vomiting.
• Blood in vomit.
• Fluid accumulation in the body.
• Mucosal (gums and nose) bleeding.
• Liver enlargement.
• A rapid decrease in platelet count.
If these symptoms are present, the officials said, people should contact the nearest clinics without any delay.
