The Grenadian Health Ministry is reporting confirmation of twelve (12) cases of Chikungunya on the mainland.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Alister Antoine, who said the twelve cases were laboratory confirmed by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad and Tobago.
Chikungunya cases were confirmed in every parish with the exception of St Mark and St John, he told a meeting of technocrats. The parish of St George recorded a total of 5 cases, St Andrew 3, and St Patrick and St David 2 cases each.
Dr Antoine pleaded with residents to continue being vigilant by taking the necessary steps to reduce the spread of the infection. He said that wearing protective clothing including long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellents and fans can help to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. However he cautioned, that absolute protection can only come from proper sanitation.
He urged parents of children under the age of twelve, to seek medical assistance if their child or children display signs of Chikungunya Virus.
Antoine continued by advising adults who experience the symptoms to take two Panadol every 4–6 hours for at least five days, and if symptoms persist to seek medical attention.
The signs and symptoms of Chikungunya are headache, fever, severe joint pains and rash. Presently there are a total of 21 confirmed cases of Chikungunya Virus in the state of Grenada.
GIS
