BARANGAYS Panacan and Ilang in Davao City are being monitored for Chikungunya, according to The Tropical Disease Prevention & Control Unit of the City Health Office (CHO).
Pest Control Worker II Melodina Babante said the unit is monitoring signs and symptoms of the chikungunya virus that is also caused by dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes.
During a radio interview on Monday, June 6, Pest Control Worker II Melodina Babante said a chikungunya outbreak had previously occurred in Barangay Ilang, thus they are monitoring the area for new symptoms, as well as Barangay Panacan.
Confirmatory tests are already being done, along with close monitoring of signs and symptoms of the virus that is also caused by dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes.
“Dapat bantayan kay naa sad laing pang dala ang Aedes mosquitoes. Dili pa confirm pero sa Panacan ug Ilang naa na'y mga nakit-ang signs and symptoms, gina-confirm pa gyud kung chikungunya (We should be aware of the other virus carried by the Aedes mosquitoes. It’s not yet confirmed but we have seen signs and symptoms in Panacan and Ilang but we are confirming if it is chikungunya),” Babante said.
Although the viruses are carried by the same kind of mosquitoes, chikungunya and dengue differ from each other. Babante said aside from fever, persons with chikungunya may experience joint pains and measles-like rashes.
At the same time, virus-carrying mosquitoes also have a peak biting time, which is usually two hours after sunrise at around 6:00 to 8:00 am.
In order to prevent the spread of chikungunya and dengue, Babante said residents must follow the “4S” method, starting with destroying mosquito-breeding sites, self-protection methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants and mosquito repellent, seek early consultation, and support fogging or spraying.
Additionally, Babantae said residents may avail for free checkup and NS1 dengue detection kits at the barangay or district health centers.
Babante urged residents to follow safety methods against chikungunya and dengue and to seek consultation immediately once a symptom is felt. ICM