Colombo, May 27 — A fast-spreading outbreak of Chikungunya, a painful viral disease carried by Aedes mosquitoes, is gripping the Colombo and Kotte areas, triggering public health concerns amid already rising dengue cases.
Health experts warn that the current surge could turn into the worst Chikungunya outbreak in decades, with many victims suffering from debilitating joint pain that lasts for months, or even years.
What is Chikungunya?
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness transmitted by the same mosquitoes that carry dengue—Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The word “Chikungunya” comes from the Kimakonde language, meaning “that which bends,” referring to the contorted posture of those suffering from the disease’s severe joint pain.
Symptoms and Spread
Symptoms typically appear 4–8 days after being bitten and include:
- High fever (over 39°C)
- Severe joint and muscle pain (especially in hands and feet)
- Joint swelling and stiffness
- Skin rash, nausea, and fatigue
- Discoloration of the nose and hands
Health officials are especially concerned about the lingering joint pain, which can persist for months or years—particularly in elderly patients.
No Cure, Just Care
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Chikungunya. However, symptoms can be managed with:
- Rest and hydration
- Paracetamol for fever and pain
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen (only after ruling out dengue)
- Corticosteroids and physical therapy for long-term pain
Alarming Rise in Cases
With recent rains creating ideal mosquito breeding conditions, thousands of homes, schools, government buildings, and public places have been identified as high-risk mosquito zones. Out of over 128,000 premises inspected during a special eradication campaign across 15 districts, 6,077 locations had active larvae, and legal action was initiated in nearly 1,500 cases.
Hospitals, including the Colombo National Hospital, report an alarming increase in Chikungunya-related admissions, compounding the strain on already overwhelmed medical wards. Dr. Rukshan Bellana, Deputy Director at the hospital, confirmed a surge in patients, while renowned virologist Professor Neelika Malavige called this Sri Lanka’s worst Chikungunya resurgence in nearly 20 years.
She confirmed via whole-genome sequencing that the circulating strain belongs to the Indian Ocean Lineage (IOL), similar to strains found across South Asia.
Government Land to Blame?
Despite constant public health warnings, many state-owned lands within urban zones like Colombo remain uncleared, littered with stagnant water and waste. These conditions make ideal mosquito breeding grounds. Officials from the Urban Development Authority (UDA) claim they respond to complaints promptly, but admit that no recent reports have been filed—suggesting a gap in public awareness or civic engagement.
Prevention is Critical
Without a vaccine, prevention is the only defense:
- Clean and cover all water containers weekly
- Eliminate stagnant water and clear drains
- Wear long-sleeved clothing and use mosquito repellents
- Close windows and use nets, even during the day
Final Word
Sri Lanka is now facing a dual mosquito crisis with both Dengue and Chikungunya on the rise. As political leaders scramble to form local councils, public health authorities are urging swift, coordinated action to clean public lands and empower communities to fight the mosquito menace.
Stay vigilant. One bite could change your life.
