Sri Lanka is witnessing a rapid spread of Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral disease, with cases being reported from various parts of the country.
Consultant Physician Dr. Achala Balasuriya, speaking to media, explained that Chikungunya is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes contract the virus when they bite an infected person and, after an incubation period of 4 to 7 days, can spread the disease to others.
“These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon and breed in stagnant water found in containers like flower pots, tires, buckets, and clogged drains. The disease does not spread directly from person to person—only through mosquito bites,” she clarified.
Dr. Balasuriya noted a significant spike in Chikungunya cases recently, with a unique trend: joint pain persisting for at least a month after recovery.
Chikungunya Symptoms: What to Watch For
Health experts are urging the public to stay alert to Chikungunya symptoms as cases surge.
The disease typically starts with a sudden high fever, followed by severe joint pain that may last for weeks or even months. Other symptoms include muscle aches, headaches, nausea, fatigue, and skin rashes. While most patients recover within a week, lingering joint pain can persist, especially among older individuals.
Dr. Balasuriya emphasized that eliminating mosquito breeding sites remains the most effective strategy to curb the outbreak. Authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures such as clearing stagnant water and using mosquito repellents to reduce the risk of infection.
