Amidst the rising number of Chikungunya cases in Sri Lanka, Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the Epidemiology Unit is on high alert and the Health Ministry is actively intervening in the situation.
Speaking at the weekly Cabinet briefing, he noted that several viral diseases, including Dengue and Chikungunya, are currently spreading across the country.
In response, the ministry has increased facilities in several hospitals and deployed additional staff to manage the outbreak.
Dr. Jayatissa also mentioned that some staff at Ratnapura Hospital have been infected, prompting the Director General of Health Services to assign more personnel to the hospital.
Meanwhile, the Epidemiology Unit advises the public to seek early medical attention if experiencing fever and joint pain, to rule out Dengue and ensure timely care.
The Unit emphasized prevention measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and screening windows and doors.
As there is no specific treatment for Chikungunya, recovery depends on rest, hydration, and symptom relief, while minimizing mosquito exposure during the first week of illness can help prevent further transmission.
