HPA Urges Vigilance Amid Regional Surge in Chikungunya Cases

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has called on the public to take extra precautions during the upcoming Eid holidays, following a rise in chikungunya cases reported in neighbouring countries.

Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne viral illness, is spreading rapidly in some nearby regions, prompting health authorities to issue preventative guidelines for travellers and residents. The HPA has advised people to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using repellents such as lotions or sprays when outdoors.

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In addition to the use of repellents, the agency has recommended wearing clothing that covers as much of the body as possible, particularly during times of high mosquito activity in the early morning and late afternoon. It also encouraged the public to use mosquito nets on windows and to keep doors and windows closed during peak mosquito hours.

The HPA has further urged the public to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing stagnant water from open containers, water tanks, and similar areas. Proper disposal of empty bottles and cans in public spaces, along roadsides, and at construction sites has also been advised.

To prevent the development of mosquito larvae, the agency has recommended the use of larvicides such as Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis (BTI) or Temefos in areas where water tends to collect. The HPA has reminded the public that mosquito eggs, particularly those of the Aedes species, can survive in dry containers and hatch once water is present again.

Given the potential for mosquito-borne illnesses to spread, the HPA continues to stress the importance of consistent and thorough control measures to limit mosquito breeding and safeguard public health.