Indian Red Cross responds to Chikungunya Fever
New Delhii; October 18th, 2006

According to the report of World Health Organization (WHO) till October 10th, 2006, 151 Districts in eight States of India have been affected by Chikungunya fever. More than 1.25 million cases have been reported so far. The affected States are Andhra Pradesh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharasthra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Delhi.

Chikungunya fever is a viral illness that is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. The disease is characterized by severe, sometimes persistent joint pain, as well as fever and rash. Dr. S.P. Agarwal, Secretary General, Indian Red Cross Society stated that “Chikungunya fever is not life threatening infection but there are no available vaccines against the virus to contain it. It is therefore essential for every householder should be a health constable to ensure that proper public health measures are undertaken”.

The National Headquarters', on request from Kerala State Branch released items such as mosquito nets and bed sheets, 2500 pieces each, for the Alappuzha District, which has got severely affected by the disease. On the request from West Bengal State Branch 400 pieces of tarpaulin were released for the State of West Bengal.