Hospital prepared in case of chikungunya outbreak

(CNS): Following the news that a local resident tested positive for the first imported case of the mosquito borne virus Chikungunya, Monday, the health minister has stated that the local health care system is “ready and able to treat anyone who should fall ill with the disease,”. Osbourne Bodden said in a statement Tuesday that the MRCU will continue to do its part to ensure that there is no local spread but the public should remain calm and follow the guidance in eliminating mosquito breeding sites around homes and property.

“We must also protect ourselves from mosquito bites, which is the only way to prevent Chikungunya,” he said. “Protective measures include using mosquito repellents on skin and clothes. When outdoors, during times that mosquitoes are biting, persons should also wear long- sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks.”

Thanking the Caribbean Public Health Agency for expediting testing within five hours of receiving the recent sample, which was confirmed as chikungunya, as well as to PAHO for their technical support and commitment, Bodden also added his gratitude to staff at the public health department for their surveillance and guidance on dealing with the threat.

The minister promised a weekly update ensure transparency and keep the public informed as the diseases spreads across the region.

See full statement below.