Chikungunya Surges: Punjab Sees Alarming Rise

Chikungunya cases in Punjab have significantly increased this year, with Barnala and Sangrur districts reporting the highest numbers. Data indicates a worrying spike, with totals surpassing those from the previous year. This surge in chikungunya cases contrasts with a decrease in dengue cases, although four deaths have been recorded from over 4,600 reported instances.

Experts note that chikungunya and dengue share similar symptoms like fever and joint pain, with chikungunya often presenting more severe joint discomfort. Both diseases are linked to mosquito breeding in stagnant water following heavy rainfall. Concerns have been raised about potential underreporting of chikungunya cases to avoid public panic and maintain a positive state image.

In response, health authorities have intensified preventive actions, including public awareness campaigns, larvicidal sprays, and fogging operations. Citizens are urged to take personal precautions, eliminate stagnant water sources at home, and support anti-larval measures to curb mosquito populations and control the spread of these illnesses.