Radhika Kodwani/Indore: Chikungunya has struck Indore in Madhya Pradesh after six years. This time 10 patients have been confirmed in the city so far, which has increased the concern of the health department. The outbreak of chikungunya is spreading rapidly in Indore, and symptoms like high fever, joint pain, and swelling are being seen in the affected patients. Due to these symptoms, the patients are also finding it difficult to move around.

Chikungunya cases have seen a surge in the month of September. 170 tests for chikungunya were conducted at the GMC this month, of which eight new cases were reported on Monday, taking the total number of cases to 10. District malaria officer Dr Daulat Patel said that the department is conducting tests for both dengue and chikungunya, and necessary precautions are being taken.

Symptoms and effects of Chikungunya
Chikungunya is spread by the bite of Aedes mosquitoes, which are more active during the day. Patients suffering from this disease experience high fever, swelling in the joints, pain in the heels and feet, and red rashes on the hands and feet. In some cases, the body also swells. Due to low platelets, patients feel weak, and the effect of the disease can last for 4 to 6 days.

Earlier in 2018, an outbreak of Chikungunya was seen in Indore. This time more than one member in many families is falling prey to it. Patients who have previously had dengue or Chikungunya are less likely to get infected again, although in rare cases it can happen again.

Preventive measures against Chikungunya
To avoid mosquitoes, keep your surroundings clean.
Be especially cautious of mosquitoes during the day, as Aedes mosquitoes bite during the day.
Use mosquito-repellent creams and wear clothes that cover your entire body.
Sleep with a mosquito net inside the house.
Spray anti-mosquito medicines and put burnt oil where water accumulates.
What to do if you get Chikungunya
If you get Chikungunya, consume as much fluids as possible and avoid eating fried food. Do not take any medicine without consulting a doctor. Stay at home as much as possible and rest. Pay attention to places where water accumulates and take appropriate steps to prevent mosquito breeding.

Indore's hotspot areas
Chikungunya has targeted the busiest areas of Indore. Areas like Vijay Nagar, Mahalaxmi Nagar, Bhavarkua, and Musakhedi are currently hotspots, where health department teams are keeping a special vigil. Fogging and spraying of medicines are being done in these areas to prevent the spread of mosquitoes.

Conclusion
Cases of Chikungunya have started increasing again in Indore, and it is spreading rapidly. The health department has taken the necessary steps and started fogging and spraying medicines. People have to be alert and maintain cleanliness to avoid mosquitoes so that this disease can be avoided.