TAIPEI, Taiwan – A significant chikungunya virus outbreak in China has led to urgent measures from health authorities. With over 7,000 reported cases, especially in the manufacturing hub of Foshan, officials are worried but report a slow decline in new infections.
Chikungunya is transmitted by mosquitoes, causing fever and severe joint pain. It particularly affects young children, older adults, and those with existing health conditions.
In response, workers are spraying disinfectants across cities, a method reminiscent of past COVID-19 strategies. Authorities are also cracking down on standing water, where mosquitoes breed, threatening fines of up to 10,000 yuan (about $1,400) for those neglecting to drain sources like flower pots and containers. If people fail to comply, they risk losing electricity.
The U.S. has placed Guangdong province, home to several major cities including Donguan, on its travel advisory list due to the outbreak. Similar warnings extend to places like Bolivia and Brazil, which have also grappled with chikungunya.
Recent heavy rains have worsened conditions, promoting mosquito breeding. This year’s weather patterns are notably intense, which has surprised residents as they typically expect such outbreaks in tropical regions.
Historically, China has tended towards strict measures in health emergencies, a trend that intensified after the SARS outbreak in 2003. For this chikungunya outbreak, Foshan patients are required to stay in hospitals for at least a week, although a brief home quarantine was lifted, as the disease does not spread between people.
In a unique twist, reports indicate creative methods to control mosquito populations. These involve introducing fish that consume mosquito larvae and larger mosquitos that prey on the virus-carrying insects.
As China steps up efforts nationwide to combat this outbreak, it underscores the importance of public health and preventive measures.
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Pain management, Dengue fever, Health, Disease outbreaks, World news, General news, Article, 124402636
